Kathie Jo Waters

Kathie Jo (Wilson) Waters, born December 21, 1956, in Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2025, in Missouri, with family by her side. Though born in Texas, Kathie spent most of her life in Cabot and Little Rock, Arkansas, where she built her home, raised her family, and formed lifelong friendships before moving to Missouri later in life.
Kathie was a devoted mother to her daughter, Kathie Brawley, and her son, Garner Autry IV. She was a proud grandmother to Nick McLean and Owen McLean, and a delighted great grandmother to Jace Ledgerwood, who brought her endless joy. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lester Waters, to whom she remained deeply devoted even after his passing.
Those who knew Kathie will remember her as a woman of remarkable strength and unwavering loyalty. She did not know the words "I can't." She faced every challenge with determination and every day with purpose. Kathie was the kind of person who showed up-steadfast, dependable, and always ready to support the people she loved. Her family was her heart, and she gave herself to them fully and without hesitation.
Kathie leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and quiet courage. She touched the lives of everyone she met, leaving lasting impressions through her kindness, her honesty, and her fierce dedication to those she cared about. Her absence will be felt deeply, but her spirit will continue to live on in the stories, memories, and hearts of those who loved her.
A memorial gathering of friends and family will be held in Arkansas at a future date.
Kathie Jo Waters will be forever loved, forever remembered, and forever missed.