Loren Kathryn Underwood

With deep love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we celebrate the life of Loren “Kathy” Underwood. She was a beloved, cherished, compassionate, and faithful woman whose selfless spirit touched all who knew her. At the age of 86, she passed away surrounded by the love of family and friends, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, devotion, and unwavering love.

Born in Peoria, Illinois on November 19th, 1939 to Donald and Audrey Crenshaw, she spent her childhood enjoying the simple pleasures of life—playing outdoors, fishing, and sharing countless games of cards and dominoes with her three siblings. These early years helped shape the joyful and generous woman she would become.

She began working at the age of 16 and devoted over 40 years of service to Illinois Bell, now known as AT&T. Following retirement, she found her greatest joy in caring for her two granddaughters. She volunteered faithfully at their school and church, and never missed a field trip or softball game. Her granddaughters knew they could always count on Grandma to be there, cheering them on with pride and love.

In 1959, she married the love of her life, Richard Underwood. Together they shared 41 wonderful years of marriage before his passing in 2000. Their love story was one of faith, commitment, and devotion, and together they raised their son, Kevin Underwood.

She is lovingly survived by her son, Kevin Underwood and his wife Holly; granddaughters, Allison Smith and husband Brady, and Taylor Underwood; and her treasured great-grandchildren, Aiden and Emery, who brought immense joy to her life.

She is also survived by her brothers, William “Bill” (Beverly) Crenshaw, Donald (Shirley) Crenshaw, sister: Sue Foran; sister-in-law: Bonnie Underwood; brother and sister-in-laws: Dave and Janet Underwood; and her dear friend, Jerry Sauerwein, whose friendship and companionship were a treasured blessing for the last 19 years of her life.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Underwood, and her parents, Donald and Audrey Crenshaw.

Throughout her life, she found happiness in tending to flowers, watching hummingbirds, listening to gospel music, and singing with those she loved. She and her best friend, Jerry, shared many wonderful adventures together, traveling throughout the United States to attend Navy reunions and creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Those who knew her will remember the selfless love and care she gave so freely to others. Her radiant smile brightened every room, her contagious laughter brought joy to countless hearts, and her greatest passion was always her family. She loved deeply, gave generously, and made everyone around her feel special.

Her family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many special people who showed her kindness and friendship throughout her life, as well as to the aides, nurses, and physicians who provided compassionate care and support.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind and in the love that will continue to live on through her family.

As she sang to her granddaughters:

“You are my sunshine, my only sunshine.

You make me happy when skies are gray.

You’ll never know, dear, how much I love you.

Please don’t take my sunshine away.”

Her love was our sunshine, and its warmth will remain in our hearts forever.

Following her graveside service, loved ones are welcomed to join the family at the Apostolic Church of Belleville for food and fellowship.