Kathryn Gibson Vickers

Kathryn Gibson Vickers was born April 29, 1944, to George and Louise Gibson. The oldest of four, Kathryn was born in Texas, but moved to Upland at an early age and attended local Upland schools. Kathryn had a love for learning, reading and writing, teaching, and helping others, and attended Chaffey College and the University of Redlands where she earned her teaching credential. Always interested in travel, with a keen desire to learn more about Asian culture and Japan, Kathryn moved to Japan to teach in American schools run by the United States Department of Defense. At Doshisha Middle School in Kyoto, Kathryn tutored 7th grade girls and became lifelong friends with her students. Kathryn traveled throughout Europe and Eastern Europe during summer and vacation times, but also continued to return to Upland during the summers, eventually settling down to teach at Alta Loma Jr. High School while residing in Claremont with her four-footed, furry soulmate, a beautiful Australian Shepard named Kuma.

Soon after settling back in the United States, Kathryn returned to school, studying school counseling at the University of La Verne, and also reuniting with a friend from Upland High School. This friendship led to a courtship and a marriage proposal by Randy Vickers. After the third such proposal, Kathryn accepted the invitation to wed Randall and begin a life together lasting almost 40 years. Together they traveled, nurtured, and supported many friends who were in need of care and support, and accumulated the love and respect of many, many friends and family members. In addition, after their Aussie Kuma passed they extended their love and care to Trampy the Terrier, and then to brother and sister Australian Shepards Ozzie and Diva.

After a brief stay in La Verne, Kathryn and Randy settled into their current home in Padua Hills overlooking the valley. This beautiful view, the love and encouragement of family and friends, and the two beautiful Aussies, Ozzie and Diva, helped sustain Kathryn through her more than a three-year battle with cancer. Ozzie passed away early during Covid and Diva passed also after a long illness nursed with care and patience by both Kathryn and Randy. Kathryn's battle with cancer was intense and continuous from December 2019 through May 3, 2024, when she passed early in the morning. Our dear and sweet Kathryn leaves a legacy f caring, compassion, and love for her family and friends. She leaves her beloved husband, Randy, her sister, Jan, ner nieces and nephews and grand-nieces and nephews, as well as many friends who dearly miss her. An intimate graveside service is planned for the near future, with a celebration of Kathryn's life at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation to Aussie Rescue of Southern California.