Funeral Services Set For Beloved North Fork Coach Who Died Suddenly: 'We Love You, Coach Pick'

NORTH FORK, NY — A heavy cloud of grief hung over the North Fork Tuesday as word spread that a beloved volleyball coach had died suddenly — and funeral services were announced.

Kelly Pickering, a varsity volleyball coach in the Mattituck-Cutchogue Union Free School District who lived in Center Moriches, died at 49 on Monday, Feb. 16, leaving countless hearts broken.

"We are truly devastated to share the tragic loss of our amazing coach, Coach Pickering," the Mattituck High School varsity volleyball team wrote on Instagram. "Not only was she an amazing coach and leader but also an amazing person. She has truly inspired every player who has joined this organization. Her impact goes far beyond the game of volleyball. She has built confidence, left a lasting legacy and created a family within our volleyball team. We will truly always cherish the memories we were lucky enough to make with her. Thank you for everything, We love you, Coach Pick."

Pickering's colleague and friend Christine Springer also posted a message that echoed with grief.

"Oh, Kelly," she wrote. "As the tributes to your life, your legacy, your compassion, and your unwavering support for our students, faculty, staff, and community continue to pour in, one thing is abundantly clear, we all feel the same way about you. The love being shared, and the way so many people now live their lives because of the lessons you taught them, is a beautiful reflection of who you were. Your sudden and unexpected passing has left an enormous space in our hearts and in our building; a space that simply cannot be filled."

She added: "I was beyond fortunate to have worked so closely alongside you, and even more fortunate to call you my friend. . . I will miss you forever, my friend. For the rest of my life, I will be learning how to live in a world where I can’t just call out for you down the hall or accidentally reach for the radio to say your name. Kelly Pickering, you were one of a kind. Love you."

Added Molly Boeckman: "It's an absolutely devastating loss for the district."

Funeral arrangements have been set: Memorial visitation for Kelly J. Pickering will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday and Friday (February 19 and 20) at the Ruland Funeral Home, located at 500 North Ocean Avenue, in Patchogue.

On Saturday, February 21 at 9:45 a.m., a Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at Our Lady of Mount Carmel RC Church, located at 495 North Ocean Avenue in Patchogue. A burial of ashes will follow in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, located at Granny Road and Route 112 in Coram.