Kellie (Barkyoumb) Hartigan

On November 3rd, 2023, Kellie Hartigan was called home to the Lord. Born on May 15, 1987, in Middletown, CT, she was a shining beacon of love and dedication, whose life inspired many to resilience and compassion. As we say our earthly goodbyes, we take comfort in knowing that she is now free from pain, resting in the arms of our Heavenly Father.

Kellie was the cherished daughter of Ron Barkyoumb and the late Sandra (Johnson) Barkyoumb, and the beloved sister of Nicole Barkyoumb. She found love and partnership with her husband, Bin Hartigan, and together they navigated the trials and tribulations of life. Her family was her strength even before her courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded in love by a large extended family that she relied upon, including her father-in-law Tim Hartigan and she was especially close to her Uncle Blake, Aunt Linda and Aunt Nancy. Kellie welcomed many around her to be part of her family; she found a haven in her Horizon’s family who provided support for many years. Her friend and supporter Sharon, along with her dog Lexie, could be found most days and overnights with Kellie at the hospital over the last several weeks.

Kellie didn't just illuminate the path for others; she built bridges, too. She played a pivotal role in advocating and getting a handicap door installed at her high school, Bacon Academy in Colchester.  She went on to provide insight to new summer camp staff at Horizons, and finally found her calling as a self-advocate coordinator with the Connecticut state Department of Developmental Disabilities. She was passionate about helping families and individuals, and her light shone brightest when she was presenting material close to her heart. Her actions were guided by her unwavering belief in equality and accessibility for all, a belief that will continue to inspire long after her passing.

Our beloved Kellie was a woman of many talents. She had a knack for entrepreneurship, and her creativity found its expression in the Hartigan bead and soap making company. She found joy in crafting, cooking, and baking. Her love for planning adventures with Bin, took her many places and she returned from each journey brimming with knowledge and experiences that she eagerly shared with others.

Kellie Hartigan, your light continues to shine in the hearts of those you touched. Your legacy is one of love, fortitude, and compassion. We are thankful for having known your kind smile, your spirit defined by bravery, and your heart filled with love. You may have left this earthly realm, but your spirit lives on, inspiring us to live our lives with the same. Rest in heavenly peace, dear Kellie.

Kellie’s family will receive relatives and friends on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 from 4:00 pm until her funeral service at 5:30pm at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St. Willimantic. Her burial will be private. Bin and Kellie met at camp and loved to attend; in lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Horizons, in the form of camper scholarships to assist individuals with special needs and their families with resources attend.  Horizons, P.O. Box 323, South Windham, CT 06266. Memo: Hartigan campership

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