Kathleen Joyce (Pytleski) Smith

January 30, 1949 – December 6, 2025

You passed quietly and unexpectedly, not demanding, not expecting. You lived your life for others. What we say to you now is not enough, it never will be.

Kathy, I wanted to grow old with you. We laughed and cried; we sang and danced. You gave me a peace no one else ever could, loving the parts of me that are hard to love, and you set me free to fly—to soar—to be the man I hoped I could be. My promise was for 60 years—and remains—to love you eternally, unconditionally, and to carry you with me forever.

All my love, Paul

(Adapted from An Ode to Love by Unknown)

Kathy, mom, grandma, you were the model of everyone's idea of what a good person should be. You were the steady one, the helpful one, the one you could depend on, and the one who brought peace to all who knew you. You made people feel loved and had a quiet strength. Your kindness was unmatched. You embraced every part of those around you. You changed lives. Thank you for all you have done for us. Your memory will live on in every heart you touched, forever cherished and never forgotten.

With love from those who loved you,

depended on you, and learned from you,

Your children Paul (Erin), Jacqueline (Michael), Danielle (Derek);

grandchildren Madeleine, Jack, Evelyn, Katherine;

siblings Yvette (Roger); Lawrence, Joseph, Jack (Lisa), and Deborah (Michael),

your nieces and nephews, friends, colleagues, and students.

May you rest in peace with the loved ones that passed before you, your parents Joseph and Marjorie, sister Constance, your nieces and nephew, grandparents, and dear friends.

Just as you entered heaven peacefully, your farewell will be graceful and heartfelt. Your wishes to be cremated without a viewing will be honored. Kathy's Celebration of Life will take place during 10:00 a.m. services at Dearborn First United Methodist Church, 22124 Garrison St, Dearborn, MI 48124 on Sunday, December 28, 2025.