Katherine once told me that her favorite memory was when her and her father people watched on a balcony somewhere in Paris. I’ve been thinking that she’s there right now, happily sitting on her father’s lap watching parisians go by. Katherine’s curiosity and kindness has left an everlasting impact on me and those around her. I’m reminded of Katherine whenever I take the time to notice the leaves falling or a bug crawling in the dirt. She’s truly a unique and wonderful soul, the Earth was blessed to have her on it.

I went to pre school with Katharine and i remember we had matching shirts, she had cut a cute fringe on the bottom of hers, so I did too. I’ll always remember her for her kindness to me and everyone around her. Prayers and love to her family.

From ornithology to Greek mythology, Katherine and I were always connected through our shared interests and friends. This picture was from our trip to the MET after reading “The Song of Achilles” by Madeleine Miller during our summer book club. I will always laugh at the memory of her pulling me through the Medici portrait exhibit telling me not to read anything else. Toward the end of the book after being killed by Hector, Patroclus’ spirit proudly tells Thetis he is made of the beautiful memories he had with Achilles. Our friendship is one of my best memories from high school that will always be a part of me. My partner for countless school projects, fellow KIC junior commissioner, and perhaps the only other Islip High Schooler also interested in colonial bread recipes, I will always be grateful for the love and friendship we shared. I am honored to have been her friend.

I had the privilege of working with her for Keep Islip Clean, her devotion to the environment and those who lived in it is something I will never forget. Anytime I look back on my time at KIC I think of her.  Sending so much love to the family ❤️🌎🕊️

Before Katherine’s sophomore year, me and her hadn’t talked since we were in chess club together in elementary school. We had gym class together her sophomore year and she became one of my best friends, she impacted my life and left a lasting influence on it in such a short time. We would always hang out before going to our respective practices after school ended, and even stay up late talking over the phone doing homework together. She always listened and was there if someone needed help. I’ll never forget how supportive she was when I was going through my recruiting process for college, she was truly one of the lights at the end of tunnel and was one of my biggest supporters throughout. This only breaks the surface of her character and what type of person she was. We hadn’t spoken in a while but I hope she knew how loved she was and how much of an impact she left on me and so many others.

Spirit week October 2023, I remember we nerded out over my Owl House onesie during video production.

It has nothing to do with the attached photo, but Katherine was the only person who listened and comforted me after a break up I went through when we were in middle school. She noticed I was upset and asked if I was okay, voluntarily and on her own. We hadn’t really talked much, but she comforted me like we spent every day of our lives together, and even checked in on me as well. I think that’s a perfect representation of how kind she was, always trying to help others.

From the Christopher Newport University family, 
We send our heartfelt condolences to the entire Cottral family. We only had Katherine with us for a short time and she left an indelible and positive mark on those who had the privilege of getting to know her. 
Her strength to battle through her challenges was inspiring to all and when she returned to campus we were hopeful she would be with us till graduation day. 
We send our thoughts and prayers and if there is anything CNU can do to assist or remember, please let me know.
With great sympathy,
President Bill Kelly
president@cnu.edu

I loved my cousine Katherine and I am heartbroken to lose her. My condolences to James and Lauren and Deb. My heart and prayers go out to all of you. I love you all.

OBITUARY

Katherine Mae Cottral

September 25, 2006 – November 2, 2026

Claude R. Boyd–Spencer Funeral Home

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