Kathleen was the only child of James Denton “Jack” and Lillie Belle Stokes Hatcher. She was born in Winston County on July 30, 1930.
She earned a business degree and worked for General Motors across the state. Upon retirement, she spent her time between her homes in Greenwood, Mississippi, and Louisville, Mississippi
An avid collector, she decorated her home with antique furniture. She enjoyed entertaining her family and friends and sharing her love for the past. She started the Stokes family reunion in 1973 by hosting the first reunion at her home. During the last fifty years, she was instrumental in the maintenance of this family tradition.
Kathleen served as the family historian for both the Stokes and Hatcher families. Her love for genealogy led her to contribute to several books written on family history. At family reunions, she would bring her extensive collection of family memorabilia to teach the younger generations about their ancestors.
She loved her family. She kept up with all family members and filled her home with pictures of her family. She loved nothing more than bragging about what her relatives were doing.
An avid reader, Kathleen owned a vast collection of historical books, cookbooks, and Biblical commentaries. Her love of cooking caused her to start a family cookbook which she added to yearly for many years. These cookbooks have become prized by family members.
She was preceded in death by her parents and will be missed by a host of cousins.
Pallbearers will be Joey Holdiness, Trevor Holdiness, Kim Ray, Jay Stokes, Kade Hollingsworth, and Dale Stokes. Honorary pallbearers are Lloyd Stokes and Johnny Stokes. Memorials in honor of Kathleen may be given to Middleton Cemetery Fund.
