Vigil in honor of beloved Smithfield High School music teacher to be held rain or shine

SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WLNE) — The Smithfield School District said a vigil in memory of a beloved music teacher who passed away over New Year’s weekend will be held rain or shine.

The Smithfield community will come together on Tuesday evening to mourn the loss of Katherine Young, who died after complications from the flu.

The community is welcomed to use flashlights or their phones for an outdoor candlelight vigil walking from Deerfield Park to the high school. The district said not to bring any open flames into the building.

The district said the trail between the high school and the park was cleared by the Department of Recreation. Lights will also be set up along the pathway, which begins from the road at Deerfield, goes through the woods, and ends after the softball and baseball fields closest to the gym.

In the event of heavy rain, or for those who do not wish to walk, the high school cafeteria will open at 4:30 p.m.

A visual tribute for Young prepared by faculty will be played in the auditorium.

The vigil will end at 6 p.m.