Kathy D. Thaxton

Kathy was born June 25, 1952, in Pine Bluff, AR, the daughter of Leon Shephard and Betty Hilliard. She married Darrel Thaxton on February 1, 1975, in Pine Bluff, AR.

Kathy graduated from Southeast High School in 1970 and was employed with Springfield Clinic until her retirement in 2017. She was a member of Berlin Christian Church and was excellent at party planning for family events. Kathy enjoyed traveling, particularly to the Smoky Mountains, working on puzzles, crafts and her flowers, experimenting with different recipes for cooking—but above all else, spending time with her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Joy Hayden; and step-brother, Thomas Ealey, Jr.

Kathy is survived by her husband, Darrel Thaxton of Springfield; step-father, Thomas (Helen) Ealey, Sr. of Springfield; son, Jeremy (Elisha) Thaxton of Springfield; daughter, Andrea (Kevin) Ruzic of Springfield; grandchildren, Lexie Ruzic, Kevin Ruzic, Jr., Logan Adkins, Spencer Thaxton, and Abigail Thaxton; sister, Lisa (Stanley) McKenzie of AR; step-brothers, Wayne Sexton, Tim Ealey, and Jeff Sexton; step-sister, Brenda Schrader; and several nieces and nephews.

Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies.

Private family ceremonies will be held with burial at Berlin Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Rd., Springfield, IL 62702.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home—New Berlin, 714 E, Gibson St., New Berlin, IL.