Obituary: Tinkle, Kathleen Ann “Kathy”

TINKLE, Kathleen Ann “Kathy”

Born on September 15th, 1947 in Lansing, Michigan, passed into Eternal Life on March 29th, 2016 in Spokane, Washington, She is preceded in death by her most loving parents’ Wayne and Elizabeth Tinkle.

As well as, many dear ext- ended family members, only to be joined one day later by her Godmother, sweet Aunt Adeline.

Kathy leaves behind and was the proud, devoted mother to daughter, Keziah J. Tinkle-Williams; son-n-law Patrick Williams of San Tan Valley, Az; their four children: Josiah, Zakkai, Hezekiah and Xion Williams.

Kathy’s grandson’s were her hearts’ bliss and deepest joy.

Also, cherished daughter, Tracey E. Murfin of Pensacola, Fl.

Kathy was the second eldest of eleven children (four brothers, six sisters).

She was an adoring daughter, a doting, loyal sister, an amazing aunt and great-aunt to an enormous brood of nieces and nephews.

Kathy was extremely faithful, to long time special friend Ronald Williams, as was she to all her friends throughout her life.

Kath’s greatest gifts, hospitable, compassionate, understanding, tried to accept each person right where they were, she was authentic and a real straight shooter.

Kathy was raised in East Lansing, MI and Milwaukee, WI where she attended Juneau High school and upon graduation Marquette University; majoring in speech therapy and special education.

Later, moving to Highland Park and Chicago, IL, then eventually out to Spokane along with her father, mother and siblings in 1974.
Kathy’s field of work involved child development, juvenile detention caseworker, respite care for the elderly, but, always, service and social work centered.

These last years Kathy worked for Hope House/ Volunteers of America a women’s homeless shelter.

She was an overnight-supervisor, adored by the ladies she lovingly cared for and looked after.

Kathy felt deeply humbled by an award she received for her hard work and dedicated service while there.

Though recently retired, Kathy decided that she needed to work again with children.

Just a few months ago, she began to care for two adorable pre-school age kid’s.

This new family loved her as well, as they so kindly shared with us, “She will be irreplaceable.

“
“Kool Kat Kathy” (the coolest sister, as she would often remind us) loved her soul music, jazz and old school R & B.

We have very fond memories of her teaching us, her dance moves.
Kathy joyfully spent her last days watching, stomping, cheering on her favorite men’s basketball team’s in the NCAA Tournament.

We are most grateful to God for our precious sister’s life.

We are thankful for His love and many graces in this sorrowful, sudden and unexpected passing of our (and so many other’s) beloved “Kathy.

“
A Memorial service for Kathleen will be held at Saint Aloysius Church, Saturday April 16th, 2016 at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, we know Kathy would be thankful for any donation’s to Hope House, Spokane, WA.