Kathleen "Kathy" Marie Riley

Kathleen “Kathy” Marie Riley, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 4th at the age of 78.

Kathy was born on October 6, 1947, to Cletus Klein and Evelyn Quill Klein. She was a woman with a heart for helping others, a deep love for her family, and a personality that was impossible to miss. Kathy lived life with enthusiasm, humor, warmth, and a wonderful sense of fun. She had a way of filling a room with her presence and making the people around her feel loved.

Kathy earned her master’s degree in counseling from Drake University and devoted much of her professional life to helping people through difficult times. In her career she served as a mental health counselor in many capacities eventually retiring as a crisis team coordinator. Her compassion and genuine concern for others were at the heart of the work she did. In 1992 Kathy and Dick married in Des Moines where they enjoyed entertaining and time with their many friends.

In 2003, Kathy moved to the Kansas City area to be closer to her grandchildren—a decision that brought her tremendous joy. She became one of their biggest fans and could often be found in the bleachers, cheering loudly and proudly for every game, event, accomplishment, and adventure. She never missed an opportunity to celebrate with her family. Whether she was cheering from the sidelines, sharing a laugh around the table, or simply being together, Kathy treasured her time with those she loved.

Kathy enjoyed traveling with her cousins and after retirement became a master gardener. She enjoyed working with her fellow gardeners at various gardens across Johnson County. Her own flower garden reflected much of who she was: colorful, lively, generous, and full of life. She took great pride in her flowers and plants.

Kathy is preceded in death by her husband, Richard C. Riley and survived by her children, Bridget Vitali (Terry), Rusty Rahm, and Kasey Riley (Morton); her grandchildren, Riley Wiles (Betsy), DJ Wiles (Alli), Evelyn Vitali, Terrence Vitali, Christian Rahm, and Casey Steinhauser (Andrew); and her great-grandchildren, Bella, George, Penelope, Jack, Kenny, Luke, Charlie, and Bodhi. She is also survived by her sister, Charlotte Wheatcraft (Bill); nieces and nephews Michael Welsher (Lisa), Abbe Mitchell (Scott), and Stephanie Noroozy; and her many cousins, affectionately known as “The Quillbillies.”

Kathy's greatest legacy is the love she gave her family. She was the kind of person who showed up, cheered loudly, loved fiercely, and brought laughter wherever she went. Her family will remember her not only for the things she did, but for the joy and energy she brought to their lives.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever celebrated by the many people fortunate enough to have known and loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, September 10th, 1:00 to 3:00pm at Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home, 14275 S. Black Bob Rd, Olathe, KS 66062.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests: Johnson County, K-State extension Master Gardeners Club

Johnson County K-State Extension

11811 S. Sunset Drive, Suite 1500

Olathe, KS 66061

Johnson County K-State Extension Master Club