Kathryn Carol Haley

1954 - 2025

Kathy Haley passed away peacefully in Boise, Idaho, on October 10, 2025-just one day shy of her 71st birthday. Born on October 11, 1954, in Van Nuys, California, she was raised in Tarzana, where she developed a deep love for animals, especially her horse, Caramia; theater, in which she participated as an actor and stagehand; and several lifelong friends who she cherished always.

In search of new horizons, Kathy moved to Boise in January 1976. Fate stepped in when she met her neighbor, Larry Hesterberg, who would become her lifelong partner. They married and, in 1978, moved to Priest River, Idaho, where they welcomed two sons, Nick and Silas. After the long, cold Northern Idaho winters became too much for them, the family moved to the Portland, Oregon area, where they lived for several years before returning to Boise in 1991 to be closer to Kathy's widowed mother, Carol.

A devoted and loving mother, Kathy dedicated her early years to raising her sons. Once they were grown, she turned her energy and intellect toward causes that had long been close to her heart. In 1993, she earned a degree in Communications from Boise State University. She went on to work for Idaho's state disability rights agency and later as an independent consultant, helping a wide range of organizations amplify their voices and messages online.

Kathy was a passionate advocate for justice, equality, and women's rights. Like her mother before her, she was a tireless volunteer, donating her time and talents to organizations such as the American Association of University Women. Whether through lobbying legislators, coordinating campaigns, or educating others, she brought dedication and heart to everything she did. She also contributed generously to numerous charitable causes she believed in.

Kathy loved to explore the world and learn about different cultures. Her travels took her to Europe, Central and South America, East Asia, and on many road trips to visit family and friends throughout the American West. She also spent countless time and effort researching and documenting her family's genealogy-a legacy of connection she leaves behind for future generations.

Kathy is survived by her beloved husband, Larry; her sons, Nick and Silas; her brothers, Tim and John; seven grandchildren; and nine nephews and nieces.

A celebration of Kathy's life will be held in Boise, Idaho, in Spring 2026. Details will be announced at a later date.

Those who wish to honor Kathy's memory are invited to contribute to one of her favorite causes:

- American Association of University Women. https://my.aauw.org/donation-product-detail.

- Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. https://bestfriends.org/sanctuary?form=inmemory.

- Or a charitable organization of your choice.

Kathy's spirit lives on in the lives she touched, the causes she championed, and the love she gave so freely.