The heartbreaking death of Martin Short’s daughter, Katherine Hartley Short, has left family, friends, and fans mourning a life defined by compassion, quiet strength, and a deep commitment to helping others.
But in the days following her passing, a tender detail from Katherine’s private world has surfaced — one that paints a powerful picture of the struggles she faced and the comfort she found along the way.
Comedian Martin Short is grieving the loss of his daughter, Katherine, who tragically died by suicide at age 41 on Monday in Los Angeles.
Before her death, Katherine had a devoted service dog named Joni — a black-and-white companion she lovingly named after singer Joni Mitchell. On her since-deleted professional website, Katherine openly shared how much the dog meant to her, offering a rare glimpse into her personal journey.
“Joni is my incredible service dog, who has been assisting me with my own struggles with mental illness for the past 5 years,” Katherine wrote, according to Page Six.
She described Joni not only as a source of support but as a joyful presence in her daily life.
“Joni will often be in the office with me, cuddled up on her bed,” Katherine continued. “She is an absolute sweetheart and just LOVES people, so don’t be surprised if she greets you with a smile, a wagging tail…and maybe even a kiss.”
Those words now feel especially poignant, a reminder of the quiet battles Katherine fought and the unconditional comfort she found in her loyal companion.
A life dedicated to helping others
While Katherine largely stayed out of the Hollywood spotlight, she built a meaningful career as a clinical social worker. Her website highlighted her private practice and areas of specialization, including anxiety, psychotic disorders, and borderline personality disorder.
She also worked in psychiatric hospitals and outpatient programs, supporting veterans, foster youth, and low-income families.
Katherine was additionally involved with Bring Change to Mind, a nonprofit focused on ending the stigma surrounding mental illness and encouraging compassion and understanding. Her professional life reflected the empathy and dedication many who knew her say defined her character.
A devastating loss
Authorities reportedly responded to a call Monday evening at Katherine’s Hollywood Hills home, where she was found dead.
Officials have not publicly released full details surrounding her death.
A representative for Martin confirmed the tragedy in a statement that captured the family’s profound grief:
“It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short. The Short family is devastated by this loss, and asks for privacy at this time. Katherine was beloved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world.”
Neighbors later described Katherine as kind, quiet, and warm — a friendly presence who tended to her garden and occasionally waved hello from her porch.
A neighbor living two doors down told Us Weekly, “She was very nice, but this is a quiet neighborhood, and to be fair, we don’t see too many neighbors usually out. She didn’t throw parties, wasn’t loud, and mostly kept to herself.”
Family, love, and lasting memories
Katherine was the adopted daughter of Martin Short and his late wife, actress Nancy Dolman, who died of ovarian cancer in 2010.
She grew up alongside her brothers Oliver and Henry in a close-knit family grounded in love despite enduring profound loss over the years.
Though she preferred a life away from fame, Katherine occasionally appeared at events with her father, sharing tender red-carpet moments that now carry even deeper emotional weight.
Her final public sighting came in 2023, when she celebrated her birthday in Hollywood — smiling beside loved ones, unaware of how precious those memories would soon become.
In the end, Katherine’s story is one of compassion, resilience, and quiet impact. She dedicated her life to supporting others struggling with mental health while navigating her own challenges with courage and honesty.
The image of her service dog Joni curled beside her — offering comfort, warmth, and unconditional love — now stands as a touching symbol of that journey.
For those who knew her and those just learning her story, Katherine is remembered not for tragedy alone, but for the kindness, empathy, and gentle light she brought into the world.
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