Katharine Cunningham Teltsch

Born and raised in Boston, MA, she was a graduate of the Convent of the Sacred Heart in Noroton, CT. and Manhattanville College of the Sacred Heart, class of 1956. A woman of deep and devout faith, she drew tremendous strength and perseverance from her beliefs and remained dedicated to her family and friends throughout her life. Kitsy was thoughtful, kind, caring, generous, intelligent, and curious. She took great joy in an active life as an avid reader, enjoyed crossword puzzles and Jeopardy, planning world adventures and entertaining those she loved.

She is survived by her children: Ann Teltsch Derbes (Robert), John George Teltsch Jr. (Lisa), Emily Teltsch Compton (William). She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Patrick Derbes (Megan), Michael Derbes (Victoria), John Teltsch III (Gina), Lauren Teltsch Sturges (Michael), Zode Compton, Stephen Compton, Andrew Hicks, Megan Hicks, Molly Hicks. Also, she leaves behind her great-grandchildren, Chloe Teltsch, James Sturges, Luke Sturges, and Jack Sturges.

Kitsy is predeceased by her parents John Madigan Cunningham and Mildred Manning Cunningham, her husband of 67 years, John George Teltsch, her sister Ann Cunningham Mullen, and her two daughters Maria Cunningham Teltsch and Katharine Teltsch Hicks.

The family wishes to thank Kitsy’s wonderful caregivers Florence Griffin, Trey Hutcherson, Jameshia Wilson, Julisha Moran. They also offer special thanks to Joy McKinnon, Kitsy’s personal trainer, for her unwavering support and friendship.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00am, Saturday July 25, 2026, at St. William Catholic Church of St. Simons, GA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. William Catholic Church 2300 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island, GA 31522.