Kathryn Gayle Jackson

JACKSON Kathryn Gayle, 45, passed away Thursday, December 23, 2010. Born on November 18, 1965 in Jacksonville, FL, this loving and committed mother, daughter, loyal sister and generous friend was taken from us too soon. She deserved a Medal of Honor for her authentic courage, bravery and fortitude to stand up for what was right in difficult situations. Her first priority was her family and she took care of them. Steadfast and unwavering, her love will never be forgotten. Kathy was the daughter of Glenna Edwards Thompson, and is preceded in death by her biological father Lewis Hay. Kathy spent her last 6 years as the Director of Human Resources at Jacksonville Area Legal Aid. From her first day there, everyone knew that they were in the best of hands, as Kathy was a consummate professional, extremely good at her job. But more importantly, Kathy took a personal interest in everyone, doing everything in her power to help them through their days and issues, both professional and private. Kathy was not only a co-worker, she became family: A sister to some, a surrogate Mom to others, and always a friend, treating everyone with the love and care she lavished on her own children. In their own words “We will always cherish her, and be grateful for the time we had with one of the best people we ever had the privilege to know.” Kathy is survived by her children, Matthew Tetreault and Shelby; her mother; father, Dennis Thompson Sr., brother, Dennis Thompson Jr.; sisters, Julie Thompson Edgar (Tim) and Christie Thompson Holechek (Scott); niece, Claire; nephew, Brandon; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins, and her family in South Florida; uncle, Gordon Hay (Irma); Kavinna Anderson, Jacki Hay and Lewis Hay II. The family will receive friends for a public viewing on Monday, January 3rd from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at HARDAGE-GIDDENS RIVERMEAD FUNERAL HOME located at 127 Blanding Blvd in Orange Park (www.hardage-giddensrivermead.com). Funeral services will be held at the same location the following day Tuesday, January 4th at 3:00 PM with Senior Pastor Mike Sanes officiating. Flowers will be appreciated or contributions may be made in Kathy's memory to Jacksonville Area Legal Aid or Quigley House Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Center in Orange Park.