Kathy Lynn Newell Obituary

Kathy Lynn Newell, 60, of Kirksville, MO died peacefully on May 24, 2024.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Donovan and Eleanor Newell, and her sister, Dona Robinette.

Kathy is survived by her sister and guardian, Barbara Graves (Dan) along with her brother, Robert Newell, and her sister, Susan Risker. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and nephews, cousins, friends, and her special friend and niece, Afton (B.J.) Payne; Bob & Lois Graves, and all her “family” at Chariton Valley Association who lovingly cared for Kathy for forty years. Kathy’s family is indebted and grateful to everyone at Chariton Valley Association involved with her care and friendship.

Kathy loved her family and friends and grew up listening to classical music every day. She possessed a quiet nature but was certainly not shy about making her wishes clearly known. Kathy had Down syndrome with many handicaps but she overcame many difficult obstacles and proved to be formidable. She was blind and unable to walk without assistance but worked hard for skills others took for granted.

Kathy loved spicy and sweet food, taking long relaxing naps in her recliner with her stuffed sloth, having her nails painted, listening to movies and books on tape, enjoying the fresh air with staff and house mates, and holding the hand of those who were dear to her.

She taught us how to love without reservation; she had a wonderful capacity to care for others. Watching her overcome her own challenges, taught us to accept our own limitations and helped us stop making excuses for our own hardships. She finished her race well and fulfilled the goal of moving the Kingdom of God forward. She had a meaningful life filled with purpose and will be deeply missed.

Graveside memorial services will be held on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at 11 am at the Shelbina Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Chariton Valley Association of Kirksville; PO Box 1095; Kirksville, MO 63501