Stephanie Turowski

Waterford — Stephanie Lynn Turowski, 24, of Waterford died Monday, Dec. 26, 2016, as a result of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle crash.

Known by most for her hard work, easy smile, patience, kindness and fashion sense, Stephanie’s fighting spirit may have come as a surprise to some. No matter the task, she worked tirelessly to put forth her best effort whether related to her career, her hobbies or her journey to understand and create her place in this world. Stephanie demonstrated grace and determination in all corners of her life, inspiring those around her to do the same.

When not engaging in these endeavors, she found pleasure in finding time to walk on the beach, no matter the season. Stephanie most enjoyed exploring Harkness Memorial State Park or Waterford Beach, and was seldom without a beach chair and sunglasses, always prepared to soak in the ocean air. She valued time spent with family and friends and was eager to build relationships with those around her, a task aided by her sharp wit and charm. She was always quick to laugh, and had the ability to spread joy in any circumstance.

Stephanie was born March 2, 1992, in New London, the daughter of Steven M. and Olivia (Alamilla) Turowski. She attended Waterford schools, and graduated from Waterford High School in 2010. She went on to attend Three Rivers Community College, earning an associate degree in early childhood education and teaching before completing her bachelor’s degree from Mitchell College in New London, earning magna cum laude honors while working as an orientation leader and student mentor. She began her budding career at Mitchell College, where she worked as an AmeriCorps VISTA member, developing ties with students, faculty and various community organizations in order to improve student performance at Mitchell College, eventually taking the opportunity to lead select classes as an instructor. These experiences, along with an innate drive to help others, led her to pursue graduate school options in academic and career counseling.

Stephanie is survived by her parents, Steven and Olivia Turowski; her brother, Alexander Turowski; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins; her Godson, Parker Forbes; and her dog, Makki; all of whom miss her dearly.

She is predeceased by her paternal grandparents, Mitchell and Lillian Turowski; and her maternal grandparents, Olivia and Gustavo Alamilla.

There will be a service from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 2, 2017, arranged by Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, located at 48 Grand St., Niantic, as well as a Mass of Remembrance at 3 p.m. Friday, March 3, at St. Paul’s Church, located at 170 Rope Ferry Road, Waterford.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donations to Mitchell College, where a scholarship fund is being created in her honor. Checks may be made out to Mitchell College with “Turowski Scholarship Fund” in the memo, and they can be mailed or forwarded to: Mitchell College, Attn: Advancement Office, 437 Pequot Ave., New London CT, 06320.

To send the family an online condolence or to view Stephanie’s online video tribute, please visit www.neilanfuneralhome.com.