WEST NEWBURY — About 100 people gathered last night to remember Groveland native Jaquelyn “Jackie” Kastrinelis and celebrate her life.
The candlelight vigil for the 24-year-old performing artist who died unexpectedly over the weekend aboard a cruise ship docked in northern Australia was held outside Pentucket Regional High School, from which Kastrinelis graduated in 2006.
The Rev. Lane Dallaire of Groveland Congregational Church gave the opening prayer.
“Your lives have been made more meaningful because she lived and loved,” Dallaire said.
The somber program featured two recordings of Kastrinelis performing — “Out Here on My Own” from “Fame” and “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey. One of the pieces included an introduction by Kastrinelis and was recorded soon after she moved to New York to pursue her career.
The front entrance of the school was decorated with balloons. Six candles were positioned on pedestals adorned with stars and hearts for those paying tribute to come forward and light their own candles. Those attending were asked to wear something red — Kastrinelis’ favorite color.
Kastrinelis was the daughter of Groveland deputy fire Chief Michael Kastrinelis and former Groveland selectwoman and Pentucket Regional School Committee chairwoman Kathleen Kastrinelis. The cause of death has not yet been determined.
The Kastrinelis family has established a fund to honor their daughter’s passion for the arts through the nonprofit Pentucket Arts Foundation. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made during the vigil to the Jaquelyn Kastrinelis Fund for the Performing Arts, c/o the Pentucket Arts Foundation, or mailed to P.O. Box 254, West Newbury 01985.
Plans for funeral services under the direction of the Linnehan-Grondin Funeral Home of Haverhill have not yet been finalized.
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