Kathleen Jeanette Killian

Kathleen Jeanette Killian

September 5, 1951 – September 12, 2026

Kathleen Jeanette Killian, 75, died at home in Tacoma on September 12, 2026.

Tacoma was Kathy’s home in every sense of the word. She lived here for most of her life, and although life took her away a few times, she always came back. She loved Tacoma and the life and people she found here.

Kathy had a big personality. She was funny, kind, outgoing, and genuinely enjoyed people. That made bartending a natural fit for her, and she spent many years behind the bar—a job she truly loved. Over the years she did plenty of other things, too, including working for Tandy Corporation during the early days when home computers were just beginning to find their way into everyday life. But bartending suited her: people, conversation, laughter, and a room full of personalities.

Music was an important part of Kathy’s life, as was cheering on the Seattle Seahawks. She loved the ocean. And she had an enormous place in her heart for Luna and Zelda, who were very, very loved.

If you weren’t feeling quite right, were having a bad day, or just couldn’t explain what was wrong, Kathy probably could. It was the weather. Somehow, it was always the weather

More than anything, Kathy’s life was filled with people. She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer; her son, Jon, and his wife, Kara; her grandchildren, Liam, Logan, and Sarah; and her great-granddaughters, Chloe and Athena. She also leaves behind cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and many others who loved her.

Kathy also leaves behind two treasured friendships. Sharon had been her friend since high school, a friendship that lasted through the decades, and Patty became one of the great friendships of her adult life.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Julie Ann.

Kathy spent her final days where she belonged—at home in Tacoma, surrounded by love and cared for with the support of hospice.

Kathy’s family asks those who would like to honor her memory to consider a donation to the COPD Foundation or to a local hospice organization in support of the patients and families they serve.