Kathleen Marie Browne Schaefer May 16, 1953 – August 6, 2025

Kathleen passed away peacefully on August 6th after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Throughout her illness she showed the same grace, quiet strength, and unwavering faith that she demonstrated every day of her life.

Born on May 16, 1953, in Niskayuna, NY, Kathy was the daughter of Henry and Nancy Ford, who modeled that hard work and faith in God were paramount values. These values shaped Kathy into the faithful, loving, and selfless woman we all loved so much. Her Catholic school education during her elementary and junior high years was as instrumental in her spiritual development as her first job working for her father in the restaurant business was to the development of her strong work ethic. Both attributes served her well as she put herself through her undergraduate and graduate studies, ultimately earning her master’s degree—all while raising two sons as a single mother.

Kathleen shared 25 years of marriage with her devoted husband, Richard Schaefer. Together they cultivated a deep appreciation for nature, spending time on the beaches and waterways of Southwest Florida, where they built their home on Pine Island, and in the lakes and mountains of Western North Carolina, where they purchased their retirement home in Sylva. Kathy is also remembered by Richard’s son, Chris (Beth), whose support and care for his father has been a blessing. Along with Richard, Kathy leaves behind their beloved dog, Spirit, who rarely left her side and was a true companion and source of comfort to them both.

Professionally, Kathleen was a gifted mental health therapist. She had an extraordinary ability to listen without judgment and to help people find their own strengths. She continued to practice throughout her illness and worried deeply about the impact her passing might have on her long-term clients. Her family reassured her that, just as she had done for them, she had equipped her clients with the tools they would need to cope and heal.

Her greatest joy came from her family. She was the proud mother of Hayes (Kimberly) and Aaron (Tishia), and she delighted in her role as “Nana” to Cameron (Lauren), Koby, and Connor. Whether it was feeding her loved ones with her homemade meatballs and sauce, signature chocolate chip cookies, or the most incredible Thanksgiving dinners, or creating comfort with soft blankets and cozy surroundings, she made sure her family always felt loved and cherished.

Kathy is survived by her brothers Steve Ford (Kathleen) and Pat Ford (Susan), whose lifelong bond with her was rooted in treasured memories. She was also a devoted and loving aunt to Dustin (April) and their daughters Breanna and Kaylee, as well as Cassandra and Michael. Each one held a special place in her heart, as did her many aunts, uncles, and cousins, several of whom have gone before her.

Kathleen also had her “soul sisters”—Lori, Melinda, and Debby—friends who became family and whose love, laughter, and steadfast support were constant blessings in her life.

Those who knew Kathleen will remember her warm smile, calming presence, and remarkable gift for seeing the best in others—and helping them to see it in themselves. Her strength, love, and presence will be missed beyond measure, but her influence will live on in the countless lives she touched.

If you were fortunate enough to be loved by Kathy, we ask that you celebrate her life by living just a little more as she did: be kind and gentle with yourself and those around you, look for the good, don’t be the first to let go when giving a hug, and use your gifts to make the world a better place.

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