A sad loss takes a toll on Seton Hill University

A sadness has overtaken students and faculty at Seton Hill University (SHU) as a fellow student has tragically passed away over the winter break. Taffeda L. Finch, 24, of Greensburg died December 30, 2008. Finch, the driver of a 2002 Ford Focus, lost control of her car, according to the Tribune-Review. The accident occurred on Toll Route 66 on the Amos K. Hutchinson Bypass, in Hempfield Township. Finch is a 2002 graduate of Greensburg Salem High School and she was majoring in biology and forensics at SHU. She was a member of Alpha Ministries.

By Jeremy Barrick

Online Editor

A sadness has overtaken students and faculty at Seton Hill University (SHU) as a fellow student has tragically passed away over the winter break. Taffeda L. Finch, 24, of Greensburg died December 30, 2008. Finch, the driver of a 2002 Ford Focus, lost control of her car, according to the Tribune-Review. The accident occurred on Toll Route 66 on the Amos K. Hutchinson Bypass, in Hempfield Township. Finch is a 2002 graduate of Greensburg Salem High School and she was majoring in biology and forensics at SHU. She was a member of Alpha Ministries.

Finch was born March 6, 1984, in Greensburg, a daughter of Edward and Cynthia Hainesworth Finch, of Greensburg. Finch is survived by 10 siblings. Viewings were held at Clement L. Pantalone Funeral Home Inc. Finch was buried at Rest Land Memorial Park, Monroeville, Pennsylvania.

Barbara Flowers, a professor of forensic science, described Finch as “vibrant,” “outspoken,” and “fun.”

“I personally never knew Taffeda, but was touched in hearing of her death. To die young is always a tragedy,” said Cynthia Boland, Director of Campus Ministry.

“I do feel that such a heartbreaking event in a small community does affect everyone. With Seton Hill as common ground, I feel that everyone can recognize the reality of the worth of everyday life,” said Kristi McMahan, a junior.

Friends are encouraged to sign Taffeda’s Guest Book, in her honor, sponsored by the Tribune-Review.

When we loose a loved one, a friend, family member, or somebody of acquaintance, they leave lasting impressions on each of us; memories that will always hold near and dear to our hearts. Finch is to be remembered for all of her quests in life and a spirit that will live eternal.

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