Kathleen Kelcy Churchill

Passed away peacefully in Carlsbad, California, surrounded by loved ones in person and remotely.

All those who knew her were familiar with her intelligence and determination. In the end, after dealing with chronic pain that she could not vanquish with medical care or rest, it appears she willed herself into her next chapter on her own terms, in her own way. It is impossible to put into words the many ways that she provided patient and loving support to those around her, from family near and far, to her friends, to her many pets.

She spent her childhood years on the move, living around the Eastern United States and in Germany. Her early married years were spent managing a male household, with her former husband, Bruce, and three boys, serving as an organized, supportive, and patient wife and mother. She provided strength and solace for many Navy wives struggling with the burdens and loneliness of deployed spouses. After turning the page when her sons grew up, she became an adoring and proud grandmother, a second mother to her daughters-in-law, a steady source of support for her extended family, a longtime partner to her dear friend Marshall, and an increasingly ardent fighter for women’s rights. She loved playing games, particularly those involving words or cards, invariably revealing her competitive streak.

She will be dearly missed, even as she continues to reside in our hearts and minds, where she will continue to love and guide us with her radiant smile and a big glass of wine in her hands.

She is survived by her longtime partner, Marshall Bridges, her younger brothers Mike and Jon, her three sons Doug, Steve, and Kevin, their spouses (Bunny, Rosemarie, and Ziki), nine grandchildren (Kate, Andrew, Ryan, Ethan, Rue, Ellie, Bernardo, Bella, and Benny), and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She will rest in peace at El Camino Memorial Park in San Diego. There will be a virtual memorial service in her honor on March 19, with further details to be provided. Given her deep commitment to the rights of girls and women, she would have loved any contributions in her name to be made to an organization devoted to that cause.