Katherine "Kathy" Lynn Swearngin

On January 11th, 2026, Katherine L Swearngin smiled and laughed, then closed her eyes. Her passing was unexpected and has left the ones that loved her most, completely devastated. We will miss our Mom, Nonna, Chic, Babygirl, and Sis everyday for the rest of our lives.

She leaves behind her Sweets, Donald Whitaker. Her Daughter, Kimmy Lynn Brantner and Granddaughter, Kenzie Lynn Brantner. Her Son Joey and wife Kelly Swearngin. Grandson Dayton and wife Kelly Swearngin. Grandson Miles Swearngin. Mom Patricia and Stepfather Steve Hampton. Brothers William Burkhart-Alas, Randall Wheeler and Jim Smith. Nephew Chris Burkhart. Sister-in-law and friend of over 40 years Bert Swearngin. Several nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 28 years, Joe Swearngin. Her son-in-law, Jake Brantner. Her Dad, Wendell Smith. Maternal grandparents, Harrel and Leona Burkhart.

Kathy was born on February 22, 1961 in Topeka, Kansas. She grew up in Independence, Missouri with her parents Wendell and Patricia and 3 brothers. She was the second oldest, but as she liked to remind everyone, Bill was much older. Being the only girl wasn’t always easy. They loved to tease her about her doll “baby head fell off” and one would chase her around the house with scissors!

In 1977, she married Joseph Swearngin. They were married until his passing in 2005. They had two children, Kimmy Lynn and Joey. Together they created a home that everyone felt safe and comfortable in. Their family always had a place to stay. Kathy always made sure that friends, especially Kim and Joey’s, always felt at home. Whether it be a slumber party or just a Friday night, Kathy always had snacks or ordered pizza. She made sure everyone was taken care of.

She was a florist for over 40 years. She worked for Cairns Flowers for several years, eventually owning it. She created stunning bouquets for any occasion. When she closed the shop, she went to work for DWF, a flower wholesaler. She had to be around flowers! She continued to do weddings and events on the side with her daughter and granddaughter.

In 2008, she shacked up with Donald Whitaker. Together they raced, vacationed, cruised, went to the lake and most importantly they loved one another. They rarely spent time apart and were almost always together.

Kathy was beautiful. She was kind, encouraging and gave the best hugs. Her sarcasm, sense of humor and laugh, were second to none. She loved to make others laugh. She fought breast cancer for 14 years with strength, beauty and grace. Getting up early every day, putting her make up on and ironing her clothes and bravely facing the fresh hell that faced her.

Kathy loved having a get together. Especially if that meant she got to make a meat and cheese tray. Please join us in celebrating her with snacks, drinks and happy memories. This Saturday, January 17th from 1-6pm at the Emerald Event Space 800 NW S Outer Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64015.