Katherine "Kathy" Burkhead

Katherine "Kathy" Burkhead, aged 69, of Louisville, Kentucky, peacefully passed away on Monday, October 14, 2024. Kathy was a devoted wife, mother, and beloved mamaw, whose love and support touched the hearts of everyone who knew her. As the oldest of eight siblings, she was fiercely independent and dedicated to her family. At the young age of 17, Kathy embarked on a beautiful journey with the love of her life, Dennis W. Burkhead, creating a life full of memories and stories. Known for her culinary skills and her extraordinary ability to remember every birthday and anniversary, Kathy always went above and beyond for her loved ones. Her strong spirit saw her through life’s challenges, guiding her to her faith and devotion to Christ. Those who remain feel the profound loss of an incredible woman, but they also gain a powerful guardian angel to watch over them.

Kathy was born Alaskan Aleut on August 13, 1955, in Kodiak, Alaska, to Herbert and Marlys (Bell) Heglin. She is preceded in death by her father, Herbert Heglin; her mother, Marlys Heglin; her husband, Dennis W. Burkhead; and her siblings, Richard "Richie" Heglin and Linda (Dave) Presley.

She is survived by her loving family, including her daughters, Kerri Burke and Denise (Patrick) Rodriguez; son, Dennis C. (Christie) Burkhead; and her siblings, Leonard (Sherry) Heglin, Christine "Christy" (Richard "Rich") Reiss, Thomas (Amy) Heglin, Stacey (Terry) Wolkoff, and Russell (Leslie-Ann) Heglin. She is also remembered fondly by her sisters-in-law, Angela (brother Arville) Decker and Cynthia McKee; honorary child, Sophia Madison; seven grandchildren; and a multitude of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family, and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Visitation will take place on Monday, October 28, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, Southwest Louisville Chapel, located at 10304 Dixie Highway. A Funeral Service will follow at 1:00 p.m., with burial to take place at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central in Radcliff, Kentucky.

In honor of Katherine’s kind spirit, the family requests that contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Association or a veteran charity of your choice. Until we meet again, Kathy will remain forever in our hearts.