Kathleen Jeanette Ashmore (92) of Traverse City, Michigan peacefully went to be with the Lord in her heavenly home on November 18, 2022.

Kathleen was born in Williamsburg, Michigan March 21, 1930 to Earl and Viva (Wiggins) Ashmore. On July 15, 1946 she married John Ashmore, a distant relative from southern Michigan. John and Kathleen had four children, Ronald, Joan, Jacqueline and Shelly. Both coming from family farm backgrounds, they began their life together in the Fife Lake area with their own dairy farm and later settled in Mayfield, Michigan. Kathleen's life work was primarily devoted to her family and friends but she also worked as a Postmaster for the US Postal Service where she eventually retired.

Kathleen was a longtime member of the Kingsley Baptist Church and was involved in hospitality, often hosting missionaries, youth groups and college groups. There were always many events going on involving their church family and they formed some lifelong bonds. Kathleen and John also opened their home to a number of foster children over the years including Shelly who they later adopted.

Kathleen was a loving and dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, neighbor and friend. She offered her time with a servant heart to others often providing meals, errands, cleaning or transportation to those in need. She and John grew many large gardens over the years which was mostly shared with neighbors and family. There were always things to be done, but if there was time for herself, she also enjoyed gardening, cooking, playing cards, baseball, reading, and crocheting. She was the happiest however spending any time with her family, and visiting friends or relatives.

John and Kathleen were married 67 years before John's passing. After caring for so many around her, Kathleen was blessed with many more years residing in Traverse City at French Manor Assisted Living with wonderful care. She enjoyed new activities and relationships there, countless puzzles, fine dining in TC, boating, the Blue Angels and even more family time.

Everyone who knew Kathleen remembers her as kind and cheerful with a bright smile and a warm heart. She was a wonderful example of God's love in action. She was always a humble and steady force for those who were blessed to know her. She had a strong faith in the Lord and passed that on to her family and those around her. There were many small acts of kindness that may have seemed unnoticed. It was noticed and we are thankful. We miss and love her and will see her again.

Kathleen was preceded in passing by her husband John, son Ronald and daughter Joan. She was also preceded in by her parents, siblings Raymond, Lyle and Gerald Ashmore and sister Delta Grant, grandson Jason Schmuckal, great-granddaughter Natasha Ashmore and great-grandson Ronnie Krantz.

She is survived by daughters Jackie (Ron) Ross and Shelly Ashmore, and daughter-in-law, Kay Ashmore. Also surviving are grandsons Phillip (Sonya) Ashmore, Paul (Ellen) Ashmore, and Nathan (Tammy) Ashmore, Joshua (Angel)Schmuckal, Jeremy (Amanda) Ross, Jonathon (Livia) Murfield and Michael (Evellin) Murfield.

She is also survived by ten great grandchildren RoseAnn Corts, Destyni Schmuckal, Casondra and Curtis Ashmore, Jennifer MacGillivary, Thomas, Zachary, Patrick, Joshua and Braydon Ashmore. Also surviving are eleven great-great granchildren, along with three great-great-great grandchildren. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who lovingly knew her as Aunt Kitty.

Private services have been held in celebration of her life with Pastor Steve Hayes officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Christian charity of your choice.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Covell-Traverse City Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com