Kathleen "Kathy" Myers

Kathleen "Kathy" (Woodard) Myers, 77, of Palestine, IL, passed away on December 2, 2024, at Robinson Rehab & Nursing in Robinson, IL. She was born on October 10, 1947, in Palestine, where she grew up in a single-parent home that nurtured a deep connection with her mother, Betty Jane, and her siblings, Martrene and Hal. Kathy's childhood was rich with love and unforgettable moments, from watching her mom and sister cook and bake in the kitchen to marveling at the magic of the holidays her mom worked so hard to craft for her family. She also cherished her time with her Aunt Rena Woodworth, whose name became part of Kathy's daughter's namesake, a lasting tribute to their bond.

Kathy graduated from Palestine High School in 1965 and attended Eastern Illinois University. While working at GE Electric & Lighting in Mattoon, she met Charles Loren Myers Jr., a dashing young Marine who had recently returned from Vietnam. Their whirlwind romance blossomed, and they were married in the Catholic Church, a faith Kathy embraced wholeheartedly as the foundation for raising their family. Together, they shared a life full of love, adventure, and family, raising five children in various states, including Arizona and Indiana, and sharing countless memories on boating trips, fishing excursions, and journeys to Florida. While their marriage ended later in life, Kathy and Charles remained united by the family they created.

Kathy’s greatest pride was her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She never missed a birthday, sporting event, or school program, cheering her family on with unwavering enthusiasm and love. Known for singing “You Are My Sunshine” to her grandchildren, Kathy also made a tradition of calling her children on their birthdays to sing the long version of “Happy Birthday,” ensuring she included all three verses. She made every moment special, decorating for every holiday and even delivering May Day baskets to spread joy to her friends and neighbors. Her love for her family was boundless, her hugs warm and frequent, and her prayers for their well-being unending.

Kathy's career was equally marked by her dedication and drive. She began by selling Avon and her father-in-law's handcrafted candle holders, which became beloved treasures in the community. Later, she worked at several factories, ultimately finding a home at Victor Dana, where her hard work earned her deep friendships and a well-deserved retirement. Kathy treasured her gatherings with fellow Victor Dana retirees, her laughter and kindness lighting up every dinner and reunion.

A lover of life's simple pleasures, Kathy had a sweet tooth that was legendary. She loved her daily bananas, peanut butter, and cranberry juice cocktail, along with her favorite treat, Dairy Queen's Mocha Moo Latte. She adored music, both playing and listening to it, and cherished reading inspirational books and sharing their wisdom with others. Whether tending to her flowers, floating peacefully in the water, or laughing at her Alexa, Kathy approached life with joy, optimism, and a touch of whimsy.

Kathy's faith was her compass, guiding her through life's joys and challenges. A 54-year member of St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church since 1970, her devotion to God was evident in the way she loved others. She greeted everyone with a smile or a hug, making each person feel seen and valued. Even in her later years at the nursing home, Kathy learned everyone's name and made it her mission to brighten their days. Her faith sustained her through every challenge, and her prayers for her family and friends were as steadfast as her knowledge of God's love.

Throughout her 77 years with us, she showed us time and again the beauty of living with joy, embracing family, and meeting each day with optimism. Though she has left our sight, we know she isn't gone—she is with her Savior. On this side of eternity, her legacy of kindness and compassion will surely live on in the hearts of all who knew her. May we honor her by loving deeply, laughing often, and holding fast to our faith, just as she did.

Kathy is survived by her brother & sister-in-law, Hal & Denise Woodard of Catalina, AZ; her children & their spouses, Charles "Chip" Loren Myers III & wife Nimfa of Jacksonville, FL, Scott Anthony Myers and fiance Claudia Mosquera of Jacksonville, FL, Katrena Leanne Burton & Brian of Palestine, IL, Clark Alan & Angela Myers of Robinson, IL, and Gregory Thomas Myers of Robinson, IL; her grandchildren & their spouses, R.J. Williams, Logan Myers, Kobie Myers, Jason & Hannah Myers, Morgan & Michael Holmes, Jack Myers, Max Myers, Lilly Myers, Kyle Myers, Lucas Burton, Megan Burton, Keely Burton, Madalyn Myers, Noah Myers, Ali Myers, Wyatt Myers, and Emma Myers; her great-grandchildren, Nora Myers, Quinn Myers, Caleb Holmes, Isaac Holmes, and Lucia Holmes; her nephews & their spouses, Doug & Amy Woodard, Nick & Jordan Woodard; her great-nieces, Brinlynn Woodard, Kennedy Woodard, Kinsley Woodard, and Jade Woodard; and her great-nephew, Caspian Woodard. She was preceded in death by her parents, Betty Jane (Chamblin) Woodard and Byrl Woodard; her sister, Martrene (Woodard) Wicks; and her former spouse, Charles Loren Myers Jr.

A time of visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on Friday, December 6th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 7th, at the funeral home, with Father David Beagles officiating. A committal service officiated by Celebrant Curt Goodwine will follow in the Robinson New Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to either the "Crawford County Relay for Life" or the "Dementia Society of America," and memorial envelopes will be available at the funeral home.