There is no quantity of words that can fully sum up the presence of someone as luminously unique as Gabby Amato, a cherished Bethlehem Catholic student who passed away early this April. The words that can be found, however, speak profoundly to the light she lit in so many.

“Hilarious.” “Unconditionally kind.” “Outspoken.” “Unboundedly herself.”

These are just a few of the descriptive factors recalled by friends and classmates in the Bethlehem Catholic community when asked to describe Gabby. It is nearly impossible to find words suitable to write a tribute to Gabby, but as I have written and deleted many rough drafts, I have found it is best to honor someone by sharing stories of the impact they left upon you.

Gabby was my very first friend at Bethlehem Catholic, a result of sharing a love for soccer. At a time when I needed it the most, she offered to me a fruitful and giving kinship. She required so little from those around her, instead opting to always give joy to others, cracking bad jokes and sending you smiles when you were having a bad day.

Talking to Gabby wasn’t like any other conversation with a friend. She made me feel heard and seen. She allowed me an outlet without judgment, and above all, made sure I left the conversation feeling loved and supported.

Many people would describe Gabby as over the top, loud and boisterous, and exceptionally opinionated. While all these factors made Gabby Gabby, she also knew how to listen. When the time came, Gabby would quiet her personality to make room for you, to put you first; to truly be your friend in the broadest sense of the word.

While she may have seemed to be “too much,” all those who knew and loved her knew she was just enough. Just enough to make you laugh even on your worst day; just enough to support you when you felt no one else would; just enough to make it known you always had a friend in her.

This unique combination of quantities has made her absence feel like the sky, vast and wide, spreading over everything. Gabby wasn’t simply an outstanding friend, she was also an incredible patriot. She loved her country and made it known to all that she was proud to be an American. Gabby also loved lacrosse, soccer and her dachshunds.

I asked fellow students what reminded them of Gabby. In response many said “American flags,” “country music” or her classic “pit viper” sunglasses, which she wore so much she intentionally received a tan line from them each summer. These items now serve as an eternal reminder to many of Gabby’s existence and impact. Most of all, they remind us to hug our loved ones and live each day like Gabby did, with kindness and care.

Life is exceedingly fragile and in the midst of loss, it is essential we remember we must also celebrate her life - and ours. I am so honored to have known Gabby and ask that all who read this - regardless of relationship to her - carry her philosophy of love along with them on their journey of life in order to extend hers eternally.