Obituaries

Kathryn left us peacefully to be with the Lord on May 20, 2010.  She was surrounded by her family and loving caregivers as she lived out her last days at home.  She lived a long and productive life, devoted to her family and countless friends.

Kathryn Clara Brown was born to Eldred and Bertha Brown at the family home in Greenwood on June 7, 1915.  She graduated from Garfield High School in 1933 and from the University of Washington with a degree in Education in 1938.  She taught in Sedro Woolley and Kennewick before marrying Ralph Barber and moving to Prosser in 1940.  Kay and Ralph spent several years in Portland during WWII where their two sons, George and Ralph Jr. were born.  After the war, they returned to Prosser where Kay continued her teaching career.  When Ralph died in 1947, she took her two sons and returned to Seattle.  She was a Home Economics teacher at Roosevelt High School for more than 20 years.

After raising her two boys, Kay married Fred Hedges in 1963.  Along with a wonderful husband and companion, Kay gained a second family.  She was delighted to have another young son, Rick, to love and raise plus a grown son John and daughter Barbara to embrace.  Kay and Fred were a perfect match and enjoyed almost thirty years of marriage before he died in 1992.

Kay was very active in community life.  She joined Floretum Garden Club in1970 and eventually served as its president.  She was a member of the Edmonds Historical Society, serving as a volunteer at the museum well into her eighties.  She was an avid bridge player, hosting local groups in her home.  Kay and Fred were also active members of Edmonds United Methodist Church.

Kay joyously touched the lives of those around her.  She will be missed by all who loved her.  Besides her parents, Kay was proceeded in death by three brothers; George, Bob and Walt and her stepson John.  Kay is survived by her three sons; George (Julee) Barber, Ralph (Teree) Barber, Rick (Linda) Hedges; a daughter, Barbara (Bob) Lee and her sister-in-law, Thelma Brown.  She leaves behind 11 grandchildren and14 great grandchildren, plus many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of her life and her 95th birthday will be held at an Open House at the family home on June 5, 2010 from 3 to 5 PM.  Memorials may be made to Edmonds United Methodist Church or the Edmonds Historical Society.