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Carolyn Infantas started the fundraiser to cover funeral costs for the Hicksville HS grad’s family
Durham’s wake is Thursday in Massapequa Park
The fiancée of Suffolk Police Officer Christopher Durham has started a GoFundMe to help his family pay for his funeral. Within hours, it raised over $22,000.
Carolyn Infantas of Hicksville launched the fundraiser Tuesday afternoon. By evening, 170-plus donors had given to the effort.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the sudden and heartbreaking passing of my fiancé, Christopher J. Durham,” Infantas wrote. “Chris was a dedicated police officer, a beloved son, fiancé, family member, and friend.”
Durham, of Commack, died Monday morning. It was the same day fellow officers said goodbye to Det. Alexandra “Ali” DeLeonardo Infante at her funeral Mass in Ronkonkoma.
Suffolk Police mourns 2nd officer in a week: Chris Durham of Commack
Infantas wrote that his death was completely unexpected, leaving the family with significant expenses due on very short notice.
“We are asking for the kindness and generosity of our community to help ease this burden so Chris can be laid to rest with the love, honor, and respect he deserves,” she wrote.
The money will go toward funeral and burial costs, according to the campaign.
‘My beautiful boy’
Durham was a former NYPD cop who began his law enforcement career working in Harlem before joining Suffolk Police. He played football at Hicksville High School and was a wide receiver as a freshman at Buffalo State.
Later, he earned an associate degree at Nassau Community College and worked as a UPS driver.
His mother, Maria Samaritano-Durham, mourned him on Facebook.
“My beautiful boy, you forever will be on my mind and soul,” she wrote. “You left us way too soon.”
His father, Albert Durham of Salem, Virginia, wrote that his son “was always caring and loved everyone.”
“Chris was deeply loved by so many, and his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him,” Infantas wrote.
Donations can be made on the GoFundMe page.
Funeral arrangements
Visitation for Durham is Thursday, Oct. 22, from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 7 to 9 p.m. at Massapequa Funeral Home’s North Chapel, located at 1050 Park Blvd. in Massapequa Park.
A funeral Mass for Durham is set for 11:15 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 23, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, located at 2 Bayview Ave. in Massapequa.
If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Lifeline, available 24/7.
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Top: Chris Durham (courtesy of GoFundMe)
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