Kathryn Ann Alexander died unexpectedly from a very short illness on Sunday, May 3, 2015 at her home in Durango.
Kathryn “Kathy” was born to Captain Ray Douglas Murphy and Patricia Murphy April 2, 1959. Her young childhood and school years were spent in Sanford, Florida and Coronado Island, California where her father was stationed in the U.S. Navy. Many of her summers were spent in Durango with Ray’s family. She flourished in Durango’s environment and thrived in the circle of her extended family. Fond memories were born through this time with all the aunts, uncles and cousins. Durango was truly “home” in her heart.
Sixteen years ago she met the love of her life, John Alexander. They wed in Wallace, Idaho and returned to Durango to make their home. Their fulfillment in life was simply each other’s company and the joy each brought to the other.
Kathy and her mother simultaneously successfully completed the LPN training at Pueblo Community College. She later became a certified pharmacy technician, working in that capacity at both City Markets for several years. She was employed at Walmart Pharmacy, in Durango, at the time of her passing.
Kathy was immensely proud of her heritage and fiercely committed to her family’s legacy. When her father passed away in 2008, she solely and graciously, in his memory, provided to the VFW Veterans Memorial Park, the flagpole and plaque that represent the U.S. Navy.
Kathy was preceded in death by her brother, Shawn and both of her parents. She is survived by her treasured and devoted husband, John, and the remaining members of the family she so joyously spent much of her younger life with in here in Durango.
Kathy’s smile and laughter were contagious. Her kindness and generous spirit brought solace to many. She personified the mystery and exhilarating beauty of a simple, loving heart. Kathy will be missed; her memory will be carried by many.
A memorial service, with interment of ashes, will be held on Friday, May 22, 2015 at 11am at Greenmount Cemetery.