Kathleen Anne Estrada-Bernard, 72, of Granby, Connecticut, passed away on August 21, 2025, in Hartford, surrounded by her loving family. Born on December 6, 1952, in Mount Kisco, New York, Kathleen lived a life filled with laughter, compassion, and warmth.
Raised in Katonah, NY, in a close-knit and loving home by her late parents, Frank and Evelyn Estrada, Kathleen was one of many siblings and cherished the bonds she shared with her family. She often traveled great distances to stay connected with her brothers and sisters, and some of her happiest moments were spent summering on Cape Cod or tending to her many gardens.
From a young age, Kathleen had a deep love for animals, nature, and the arts. She could often be found exploring the woods near her childhood home, caring for pets, or creating beautiful works of art. Her passion for the performing arts blossomed in high school, where she served as a stagehand and eventually student director for numerous productions at John F. Kennedy High School in Goldens Bridge, NY. After graduating in 1970, she pursued her love of theater at the University of Hartford, earning a bachelor’s degree in performing arts in 1974.
Kathleen began her professional career as a trailblazer in graphic design, working for several newspapers in New York City, including the Village Voice. It was during this time that she met her future husband, David Bernard. They married in 1984 and went on to build a beautiful life together, raising three children: David, Jesse, and Emily.
Later in life, Kathleen discovered a new calling in special education. She dedicated many years to the Granby Public Schools, where she worked with children with special needs, helping them reach their full potential. She was also a skilled interpreter of American Sign Language, using her talents to support and uplift every child in her care.
Kathleen is survived by her devoted husband, David; her children, David, Jesse, and Emily; her cherished grandson, Leo; and her siblings: Clare Estrada, Jane (Rick) Crecco, Anne (Bob) Davis, and Tony Estrada. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
A graveside service will be held on November 15, 2025, in East Orleans, Massachusetts, followed by a joint celebration of life for Kathleen and her brother, Frank Estrada. Please contact the family for details.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Kathleen’s memory to The Granby Education Foundation, Inc. or the American School for the Deaf.
Kathleen was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.