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Katie Colquhoun Stavola, 55, of 14 Riverside Avenue, Old Saybrook, passed away on Nov. 9, surrounded by family, after a strong and courageous battle with cancer.

Katie is survived by her husband, John Stavola; her beloved son Marlin; her mother Shirley Colquhoun; her two brothers, David and Patrick Colquhoun; and her in-laws Jacque and Theresa Stavola (John’s parents), Michele DaCosta, Luiz DaCosta, Donna Colquhoun, and Cheryl Colquhoun. She also leaves behind her nieces and nephews, Alyssa, Kaiya, Keegan, Philip, Andrew, Mila, Owen, and Jude. “Uncle Katie” will forever hold a special place in their hearts.

Katie has always been gracious, generous, giving, and selfless throughout her life. She always had an open-door policy on the holidays. She invited any and everyone who needed a place to go to and celebrate and feel loved. She had the unique gift to make everyone feel welcomed and special.

Katie was often referred to as the mayor, not only in her hometown of Old Saybrook but also on Block Island. Block Island was Katie’s happy place. She will be sorely missed at Payne’s dock by young and old alike. Remember to stop and take a moment to smile when you pass her she shed.

Katie graduated from Old Saybrook High School and went on to earn her BSN at St Joseph University. She blessed the nursing community with her dedication, compassion, and love of her job. She also was a wish maker for the Make a Wish foundation. A cause she was honored and privileged to be a part of.

Katie’s greatest joy and accomplishment was being a mother to her beautiful son, Marlin. Her world became complete the day he was born. She was an exceptional mother and cherished their relationship.

Katie had a loving, supportive team of her BFFs to help her family during this difficult time. The Colquhoun and Stavola families thank you with all their hearts.

A memorial Mass of Christian burial was held on Nov. 16 at Saint John’s R.C. Church, Saybrook. Friends called on Nov. 15 at the Swan Funeral Home, Old Saybrook. Contributions can be made in here memory to the Old Saybrook Ambulance Association or Make A Wish Foundation. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Carl Swan and Hamden Memorial Funeral Home, Hamden. Condolences may be expressed at Hamdenmemorialfuneralhome.com.