Kathy Rowe

PARAGOULD - Kathy Darlene Rowe, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024, in Jonesboro, at the age of 65. She was born Oct. 2, 1958, in Paragould.

A graduate of Freed-Hardeman University, Kathy earned her bachelor's degree in elementary education, which set the stage for her life's mission. She devoted her career to teaching kindergarten at Crowley's Ridge Academy, where she was much more than a teacher; she was a guiding light and a figure of comfort to all the young lives she touched. Kathy viewed teaching as her ministry.

Kathy's love for reading was only surpassed by her love for the beach, where she found joy in the waves and the warmth of the sun.

Above all, Kathy's role as a loving wife, mother and Gigi defined her. Her grandchildren, who lovingly called her Gigi, were the apples of her eye. She embraced every moment with them, imparting wisdom, sharing stories and surrounding them with the kind of love that leaves an indelible mark on a child's heart.

Kathy was the perfect example of a Christian woman, living her faith through her actions and her warm, generous spirit. She led by example, showing all who knew her what it means to walk in love and kindness. Kathy was a true friend to all.

A devout member of Center Hill Church of Christ, Kathy's faith was the cornerstone of her existence. Her commitment to her faith and her unwavering belief in the teachings of Christ were evident in the way she lived her life – full of grace, compassion and a deep sense of purpose.

Kathy was preceded in death by her father, Billie Joe Smith, and her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Joe and Jessie Rowe.

Survivors include her husband of 41 years, Kevin Rowe; mother, Mary Smith; son and daughter-in-law, Kyle and Magen Rowe; daughter and son-in-law, Kenna and Nicholas Holt; sister and brother-in-law, Diane and Keith Smith; and her precious grandchildren, Rowan Holt and Maggie Kate Rowe.

The celebration of Kathy's life will begin at 3 p.m. Sunday at Crowley's Ridge Academy auditorium with Michael Meredith, Kiefer Ramsey and David Deffenbaugh officiating. The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. until service time at the auditorium.

If one wishes to make a lasting memorial, Kathy would be honored with donations to Crowley's Ridge Academy Scholarship Fund, Center Hill Church of Christ Building Fund, Children's Homes, or Hope for Haiti's Children in care of Center Hill Church of Christ.

Online condolences: www.phillipsfuneral.org