Katherine Caulfield

Katherine Christopher Caulfield, an amazing wife, mother, grandmother, educator, and longtime resident of Westport, Connecticut, died peacefully on August 17, 2026 at the age of 84. The family is grateful for the outstanding dedication of her caregivers during her long illness.

Katherine was born in Rahway, New Jersey, to William T. and Katherine B. Christopher. She graduated from Marywood College, earned a master’s degree from William Patterson College, and pursued doctoral studies at Rutgers University in the emerging field of reading instruction. As an early member of the first generation of specialized reading teachers and as an avid reader herself, Katherine devoted her professional life to helping children develop the skills and confidence to read and learn.

Katherine was married to her husband, Donald, for 61 years. Together, they built a life centered on family, hospitality, and volunteering in the community. For 46 years, Katherine was proud to call Westport home. She loved the town and contributed to the community through her volunteer involvement with multiple local organizations, including the Discovery Museum, CT Challenge and the American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery, as well as serving as a reading teacher for learning challenged students in Westport schools.

Katherine’s home was a gathering place for generations of relatives and visitors. She hosted the major holidays for decades, exhibiting her culinary skills and creating a welcoming place where she and Donald made all guests feel included and at home. Her generosity as a host was not limited to special occasions. Throughout the year, her home remained a hub of family life, friendship, conversation, and celebration. The traditions she created - and the memories formed around her table—will remain an enduring part of her legacy.

Katherine had a keen appreciation for beauty and discovery. She enjoyed finding the work of local artists, tending her garden, and traveling. She especially looked forward to her trips to Italy where she honed her culinary skills and to the annual winter visits she and Donald made to Hilton Head Island for more than 20 years. These journeys brought her happiness and became cherished traditions in their life together.,

Katherine is survived by her husband, Donald; her daughters, Katherine E. Caulfield and Carolyn C. Carpenter; her grandchildren, Katy and Christopher Saladin, Ellie and Natalie Carpenter; and her brothers, Michael, Bill, and Joseph Christopher. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Jeanne Davison.

Memorial arrangements will include visiting hours August 28, 2026 from 4-7pm at Spear-Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Road, Fairfield, Connecticut. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 834 Brookside Drive, Fairfield on August 29, 2026 at 11am. Interment will be private.