Kathleen Qualkenbush

Kathleen P. Qualkenbush, a cherished mother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2024, in Evansville, Indiana, at the age of 87. Born on February 6, 1937, in Martin County, Indiana, to the late Cecil L. and Rose Perkins (nee Cundiff), Kathleen lived a life marked by love, dedication, and faith.
Kathleen's early years in Martin County laid the foundation for a life full of warmth and service. After graduating from high school, she embarked on a career that saw her talents flourish as a hairdresser and later as a devoted secretary at First Missionary Baptist Church, in Benton Kentucky, and Oakhill Baptist Church, in Evansville, Indiana for a total of thirty-five years. Kathleen was President of Ladies United Commercial Travelers, President of the Evansville Hairdressers Association, Secretary of Kentucky Lake Board of Realtors, and served on the Board of Kentucky Baptist Secretaries. Her work at her churches was not just a job; it was a testament to her unwavering faith and commitment to the greater church community. She also served through singing for many years in her church choirs. Kathleen's faith was a guiding force throughout her life, and she found joy in fellowship with her church friends and was a beacon of kindness and generosity within her spiritual community.
Despite the loss of her parents, husband, Gene, her beloved daughter, Gina Walker, her son-in-law, Danny, her brother, Robert Perkins, and brother-in -law, Robert Fray, Kathleen's strength and grace never wavered. She found comfort and support in her surviving sisters, Lori Fray, Barbara (Ray) Taylor, Janet Embree, and Terri (Darrell) Dye, and her sister-in-law Carol Perkins. Kathleen's love extended to her nieces and nephews, Traci Denton, Sonya Bowyer, Debbie Whitten, Mark Embree, Jill Roberts, Beth Ann Embree, Jama Beyers, Kristi Procter, Kari Rayeski, and Lance Dye. She took immense pride in their accomplishments and was a constant source of encouragement and wisdom in their lives. Kathleen's family and dear friends were the cornerstone of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them.
Kathleen's adventurous spirit shone brightly through her love of travel, with Ireland holding a special place in her heart. Her trips to the Emerald Isle were among her most treasured experiences. Kathleen found great enjoyment in boating, water skiing, baking, and reading.
As we reflect on her time with us, we are reminded of the impact one life can have on so many. Kathleen will be remembered not only for the life she lived but for the love she gave so freely. We feel great joy in knowing that Kathleen has been reunited with her loved ones in eternal peace.
There will be a Celebration of Life service for Kathleen at Oakhill Baptist Church at 11:00 am, October 28, 2024. Visitation will be available before the service at 10:30 am.
As an alternative to flowers, a financial donation to Oakhill Baptist Church would also honor Kathleen's memory.