Kathleen Takata

JAMESTOWN, RI- Kathleen Kathy (Burns) Takata, 58, passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side on Thursday, November 13, 2025. She was born in Bismarck, ND on July 25, 1967 and was the beloved daughter of Nancy (Mailhot) Burns of East Greenwich and the late Dr. Stephen P. Burns.

After meeting Kenn Takata in late 1994, they married in 1999 and spent 26 amazing years as husband and wife, sharing love, sharing jokes, and raising their two children, Kyle and Keilee.

A graduate of East Greenwich High School, Class of 1985, Kathy went on to attend Emmanuel College and later earned her master's degree in occupational therapy from Boston University. She began her over thirty year career immediately afterward, and fostered a deep love for working with kids with developmental disabilities, her specialty as she worked in the South Kingstown School System. Kathy was deeply dedicated to her students, each of whom held a special place in her heart. Her compassion and commitment earned her the admiration and respect of colleagues and families alike.

She was a proud and active member of Channing Memorial Church in Newport, serving on the Religious Education and Caregiving Committees, and was a Jamestown Girl Scout Troop Leader for several years. In the South Kingstown School District, she was a member, then co-chair of their Racial and Social Justice Committee, and spent lots of her free time finding ways to educate her peers on neurodiversity.

Kathy was an awesome mother, and true to her selfless character, she always put her kids first. As she guided them through life, she instilled within them not only her dedication to equity

and kindness, but also a love for the arts. She was endlessly proud of her kids as she encouraged them to pursue their passions of music, dance, and film, showing up to as many of their shows and performances as possible.

Throughout her life, Kathy enjoyed crafting in all forms. She grew up drawing and modifying her clothes, which later turned into a penchant for knitting and sewing. She was known for her distinct, colorful, patterned wardrobe, often dressing even more boldly than her preschool students.

Kathy is survived by her husband, Kenn; her two children, Kyle and Keilee; and her three siblings, Stephen Burns, Patty Harwood, and David Burns, and her mother Nancy Burns. She also leaves behind five nieces and five nephews, as well as many loving extended family members and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 22, at 12:00 noon, at Channing Memorial Church, 135 Pelham Street, Newport, RI. All other services will be private.

In honor of Kathy's memory, please consider a donation to Blood Cancer United at https://bloodcancerunited.org, to support others in their courageous struggle against this difficult disease. Remembrances may be shared at carpenterjenks.com.