Funeral Arrangements Set For Patchogue Student Who Took His Own Life

PATCHOGUE, NY — Funeral arrangements have been set for a Medford Elementary School student who, district officials said, took his own life. The family of Anders Nathanael Hart asks that, in lieu of flowers, friends and community members make donations to the Brookhaven Animal Shelter and Adoption Center to honor his memory.

Hart, an 11-year-old Patchogue resident, died April 17, according to his obituary, which includes a photo of him smiling and hugging a hen. He is survived by his parents, Alex and Ami, as well as his siblings, Ellie, Nico and Liam. The obituary adds that he was "a nephew, cousin, grandson, and friend to many."

A public visitation will be in West Sayville on Tuesday from 2 to 4:30 p.m., as well as a chapel service later at 7:30 p.m. Hart will be laid to rest in a private ceremony with his family on Wednesday at Cedar Grove Cemetery in Patchogue.

The school district posted the arrangements to Facebook, with officials adding, "Our thoughts and prayers are with Anders Nathanael Hart's family and friends."

Hart excelled in his studies, at sports, and as a musician, and was seen as a leader among his peers and "active in all aspects of the school's community," but while he appeared to be "the optimal student scholar, he also struggled with depression," Superintendent Donna Jones wrote in a letter to parents last week.

"There are no words that can adequately comfort the inconsolable grief that the family is experiencing during this difficult time," Jones continued, adding, "However, we have spoken to the family and offered our unwavering support on behalf of the district. The family has expressed their sincerest gratitude to all staff members who continually supported Anders throughout his time at Medford Elementary School."

School officials have called in crisis counselors to help students and staff cope with their loss.

"Recognizing that no two individuals process loss the same way, and that grief is a process that can take time and often comes in stages, we want all community members to know that we are here to support along the way," Jones said, adding, "In Patchogue-Medford, we have strived to ensure that all students find their "go-to" person — an individual in who they can confide, find support, and trust in times of need."

"As our school community continues to cope with this loss, we know that this connection will be more important than ever," she said.

To donate to the Brookhaven Animal Shelter, click here. Flowers can also be sent to Hart family, or a tree can be planted in memoriam by visiting the funeral home's floral store.

Anyone struggling with mental health can get help by calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, visiting suicidepreventionlifeline.org or by texting HOME to 741741.