Katelyn Joy Derstine, 20, died June 15, 2006. She was a Environmental Horticulture major student at the University of Florida. She was just beginning her academic career and was extremely enthusiastic about her courses and future in horticultural therapy.
Katelyn loved butterflies and as a tribute to her, several butterfly gardens have been established as a living tribute to her. Katelyn will be missed by so many people who knew and loved her but she will also be missed by those who never had the opportunity.
A special Scholarship has been established in her honor.
"Once while I was struggling to climb, I asked God to give me a sign. A sign that would tell me You were thinking about me & still loving me..to give me the strength to keep climbing. He did..He gave me a BUTTERFLY"-- Katelyn J.Derstine 2004