Kathy Marie Herring

Kathy was born on September 26, 1957, and passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025.

Kathy was the first-born child of Frances and Sam Herring. From an early age, she was curious, fearless, and unafraid to speak her mind. As the older sister to Trisha, Kathy ensured she was included in all that she did, whether by choice or with a gentle reminder from Sam not to forget Trisha.

Kathy moved from Mississippi to Florida, traveling due to her father’s work-managing stores along the Gulf Coast. She later graduated from Rickards High School in Tallahassee, Florida, in 1975. She held fond memories of her childhood, especially time spent visiting her grandparents at Byrd Hill, where she was lovingly spoiled by her grandfather, Abby, and cherished time spent with many aunts, uncles, and cousins, making memories on the farm.

Driven by a strong sense of independence and a desire to see the world while serving her country, Kathy joined the United States Air Force at the age of 17. One of her first overseas assignments took her to the Philippines. It was there that she met Kim. They later married in 1980 and went on to raise three beautiful daughters together.

Kathy proudly served for 20 years, retiring with the rank of Master Sergeant (E-7). Her military career included assignments in Germany, the Azores, and Saudi Arabia during the Gulf War, and she was honored with the Outstanding Airman Award in 1991.

Following her military retirement, Kathy continued her life of service by returning to school and graduating from the University of South Carolina. Following in her mother Frances’s footsteps, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree as a Registered Nurse, dedicating herself to caring for others with the same compassion and strength that defined her life.

Kathy made her girls’ childhood exciting as she poured her creativity and energy into motherhood—making bright, beaded halloween costumes, throwing the biggest birthday parties every year, and creating experiences her daughters would never forget. One of those treasured memories was taking Karen and her traveling twins to Myrtle Beach.

Kathy had a deep love of travel and adventure. She traveled extensively throughout the nation, often making long journeys from Montana to Florida, stopping along the way to visit friends in Utah, Nebraska, and Missouri, and beyond. She also had a genuine passion for history and enjoyed learning about the people, places, and stories that shaped the world.

Wakulla Springs held special meaning for Kathy. From visiting as a teenager, to bringing her own children, and later sharing it with her grandchildren, it remained a source of cherished memories throughout her life.

Kathy officially retired in 2022 and fully embraced her free time—spending it with family, exploring new places, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures. Her final residence was in Havana, Florida.

Kathy was preceded in death by Frances Marie Byrd, Samuel Herring, Alice Marie Reed, and Kim Leach.

She is survived by her daughters, Karen Inglett, Jessie (Jacob) Reed, and Casey (Richard) Padon; her sister, Patricia Herring (George Wagner); her grandchildren, Wren, Rigel, Zelda,Charlotte, Brooke, and Alexandra; Shawn Inglett, father of Wren and Rigel; and her nephews, Travis (Lindsey) Fletcher and Eric (Kristy) Fletcher.

Kathy was selfless in the way she loved and served—her family, her friends, and her country. A devoted mother and grandmother and a loyal friend, she leaves behind a legacy of kindness, service, and love that will never be forgotten.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, February 15th 2026 at The Lodge at Wakulla Springs, 550 Wakulla Park Dr, Crawfordville, FL 32327. Additional details will follow.

Guests wishing to make reservations at The Lodge at Wakulla Springs may call 850-421-2000.

If you wish to send condolences to the family, please mail them to:

31213 SW County Road 379

Bristol, FL 32321