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BORN
1942
DIED
2019
Kathleen Carmody Obituary
KATHLEEN K. CARMODY
February 9th, 1942 August 20, 2019
Kathleen K. Carmody, 77, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, formerly of Anchorage, Alaska, and Choteau, Montana, died peacefully in her sleep on August 20th, 2019, at Penrose Hospital in Colorado Springs. Born February 9th, 1942 in Choteau, Montana. She is predeceased by her parents, Tena M. Johnson and Bernerd Johnson.
Kathy's life was one of momentum, carried by her love for music, people (especially the underdog), a vigorous work ethic and an adventurous spirit. She landed her first job in the 8th grade delivering burgers and shakes on roller skates at a local drive-in in her hometown of Choteau, Montana. While working through high school and college, she went on to receive her teaching degree from the University of Montana, and promptly loaded all that she had into her 1960 Ford Coronado and drove to Alaska to take a teaching position in the fall of 1964. In Alaska, she received her master's degree in education from the University of Alaska, Anchorage and went on to become a Jr. High Principal. Kathy's heart for the underdog and passion for life showed when she won Principal of the year in Anchorage by transforming an inner-city, junior high school to be recognized as a national model of improvement. During her career as an educator, she published a journal article exploring the effectiveness of various teaching techniques that can still be referenced today.
While in Alaska Kathy joined the international singing organization, Sweet Adelines and remained a dedicated member for 52 years. In her tenure as a Sweet Adeline, she coached countless choruses both internationally and domestically, directed three choruses of her own (one of which was all men), competed on the international stage and was elected International President of the organization two times.
Kathy's spirit and accomplishments will continue to inspire us all as the song of her life comes to a beautiful close. Today in the presence of Christ Kathy is even more beautiful, free and singing louder than she was here on earth. If we are listening, we will forever hear her singing over us.
Kathy is survived by her sister, Barbara Arensmeyer of Choteau, Montana, her daughter, Katrina Moon of Seattle, Washington, her son, Kris Carmody of Anchorage, Alaska and her five grandchildren, Cole Carmody, Taylor Moon, Noah Carmody, Bailey Moon and Olivia Carmody.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at Harmony Hall 3815 N. Academy Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 80917 on Saturday September 28th at 3 pm.
The service will be broadcast live on Heart Song Church of Colorado Springs facebook page 3pm GMT.
Donations in her honor may be made directly to Beacon Hill at https://www.beaconhillak.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kathleen Carmody
October 1, 2019
My prayers from "Down Under" are Kathy's family during this sad time.
We spent some beautiful moments during our last years of study at the University of Montana at Missoula MT. We maintained periodic contact through the years through our dear mutual friend Mrs Emma Lomasson. Kathy was a spirited, beautiful and intelligent person who will be sadly missed by all.
DAN R BIERI Sydney, NSW, AUSTRALIA
September 27, 2019
Kathy was one of the best friends that I've ever had. I will miss her every day until I see her again in the hereafter!!!!
Colette Mayers
September 16, 2019
My sincere condolences to the family. Kathy's joyful spirit lives on through her teachings and her love of music and laughter. I feel so blessed to have known her and am so grateful to her for sharing these gifts with me.
Arlene Graff
September 9, 2019
Ms. Carmody was my teacher when I was in junior high in 1967 or 1968. She was and is my favorite teacher. My condolences to her family and friends. She will be missed.
Susan Whitmore
September 9, 2019
Dear Carmody Family:
Kathy was an amazing person. Such a dedicated educator and what a smile! I remember how she had confided in us that we were the chorus she had always wished for. (I think she made every chorus feel that way.) She taught me how to sing well as a chorus member in Velvet Hills for 14 years, something as a veterinarian I had not quite expected to learn! I will be forever grateful to have known her.
Nora Inman
September 8, 2019
Kathy, I miss you already. Fun, friends, music, travel are some of the joys I remember from singing in your Chorus. You are loved.
Jim Taylor
September 8, 2019
Kris, Katrina, and family,
Please accept my most sincere condolences on the passing of your mother. It was my privilege and pleasure to work with Kathy at Clark Jr. High, then again later at Wendler Jr. High. She was a wonderful friend and was mentor to me as well as to all who had the opportunity to work with her. She had a great sense of humor and a passion for the work she did, whether as an educator or as a Sweet Adeline. The world has lost a great and grand voice, both as a musician and as an advocate for kids.
Val Sherman
September 7, 2019
She was our director for Top of the World Chorus. A beautiful chapter in my life singing for her. Rest In Peace Kathy. Thank you for lifting me up in our time together.
September 7, 2019
I had never heard of Sweet Adeline's until I joined Velvet Hills Chorus in 2015. Kathy shared with me and so many her love of singing and performing. Thanks to her I hope to have the opportunity to continue to grow and share with others my joy.
Judy Ruhand
September 7, 2019
So very sorry for your loss. Judy Sweet Adeline in Missouri.
Carol Wills
September 6, 2019
I am so saddened by this loss. I was a member of Velvet Hills chorus while Kathy was the director for many years. She was such an inspiration, loved by many, and she loved her music. The world is a sadder place without her. Deepest condolences to her family.
Rhonda Hodges
September 6, 2019
She was an inspiration to many. I cherish the memories of Velvet hills Chorus!!
Cindy Gonzales
September 6, 2019
I am forever honored to have had the opportunity to have sung for Kathy in Velvethills Chorus. I will miss her spunk and wonderful zest for life and learning. Love you forever my friend
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