Obituary of Kerry Guiheen

Kerry Ann Guiheen, 45, of East Hartford, CT, passed away on July 14, 2023, at Hartford Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.

Kerry was born in Farmington, CT, to Marion (Castagno) Nelson and John Guiheen on November 18, 1977. She attended East Hartford High School and graduated in 1996. She attended Manchester Community College, before going on to earn her CNA certificate from the Data Institute in East Hartford. Kerry spent some time working with the elderly community before she went to work for MARC Inc. in Manchester, CT. It was here at MARC, where she found her passion for supporting those with differing intellectual and physical abilities. There she worked as a Job Coach for over 20 years. She was loved by her co-workers and adored by the individuals she coached. Kerry was a loving and devoted mother, daughter, and sister. She enjoyed attending and supporting her children’s various sporting events, watching Law and Order SVU with her daughter Taliyah, and cooking newly found recipes for her son, Ricky. Kerry’s never-ending love and compassion was felt by all. She will be remembered for having had an enormously kind heart and taking good care of those around her. As a supporter of Donate Life, Kerry selflessly donated her kidney to her brother 23 years ago, and even now in death, Kerry was able to help more people through the gift of organ donation. Kerry’s kindness has gone beyond that of those she interacted with daily. She lives on in her brother Kevin, and in the others who were able to receive her gift of life.

Kerry is survived by her son Rick O’Neal and her daughter Taliyah O’Neal of East Hartford, her mother Marion (Castagno) Nelson of East Hartford, brother Kevin Guiheen and sister-in-law Casey (Decoteau) Guiheen of Newington, along with several aunts, uncles and cousins. She is preceded in death by her father, John Guiheen, stepfather John “Jack” Nelson, and grandparents Anthony and Grace Castagno.

Memorial calling hours will be held at John F. Tierney Funeral Home, 219 W. Center St., Manchester, from 12:00 - 3:00 PM Saturday, July 29, 2023. Following the calling hours, the family would like to invite family and friends for a celebration of life at the Moose Lodge (#1477); 404 Prospect St, East Hartford, CT 06108 for lite refreshments.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to MARC Inc.,151 Sheldon Rd, Manchester, CT 06042. Email: info@marcct.org.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the many doctors, nurses, and staff at Hartford Hospital, the staff at New England Donor Services (NEDS), the staff at MARC Inc. and all the family and friends who offered love and support during this time.

See ya later alligator; In a while, crocodile….