Kathryn Fillmore

Kathryn Elizabeth Fillmore, 75, passed away peacefully in her home in Alpine, Utah, on Saturday, January 4, 2025, surrounded by her devoted husband, Dale, their seven adoring children, 35 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren (with two more on the way).

Kathy was born in Pocatello, Idaho, on December 8, 1949. She met the love of her life, Dale L. Fillmore, while attending Brigham Young University. Dale was smitten the moment he saw her and once winked at her while walking to class before they had even met. Their first date was a blind date on September 26, and he proposed on November 9, knowing she was the perfect woman for him and determined not to let her get away. They married in the Manti Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on April 3, 1970. Together, they had seven children: Mark, Kimberly, Kristin, Melissa, Brad, Sarah, and Lindsey. Along with Dale, they were her entire world-her purpose and joy.

Kathy was a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ. His attributes shaped her daily living, not just her Sunday worship. She was a diligent student of His word and loved scripture of every kind. Even in her state of advanced dementia, she carried her scriptures with her everywhere, considering them her most cherished earthly possession. She tirelessly served God's children in word and deed. Whether she gave birth to them or not, she willingly "mothered" anyone in need-even adults. Kathy was a collector of people, never afraid to step into others' struggles and find ways to lift and serve. The number of cookies, cinnamon rolls, loaves of bread, and meals she made for her family and others is immeasurable. Kathy always had a smile on her face. Even while living with advanced dementia, she greeted friends and neighbors with warmth and compliments. At grocery stores, she often noticed young mothers with children, offering kind words to the children and encouragement to the mothers.

Service was her love language. She especially loved serving young people and spent 20 years in the Young Women program at church, as well as serving multiple times as Relief Society President. She loved serving alongside Dale in the BYU young single adult stake and cherished feeding and serving missionaries during their time in Peoria, Illinois. She was bold yet loving in her discipleship, frequently welcoming missionaries into their home for teaching lessons and fellowship.

Serving as a missionary with Dale in the Sydney, Australia North Mission was a highlight of Kathy's life. And of course, she found a way with a very tiny oven in a very small flat to regularly feed hungry missionaries and neighbors alike. She also served in the small branch there as the Primary President. Later in life, she and Dale served as ordinance workers in the Mount Timpanogos Temple, where she found great joy and peace.

Among Kathy's greatest accomplishments was being a mother. She loved her pregnancies and babies deeply, working tirelessly to create a welcoming, peaceful home filled with faith, love, and service. She attended every sporting event, dance recital, and piano performance, always volunteering as a supportive parent. Every space she touched became beautiful. Holidays were celebrated with decorations and meaningful traditions that continue in her family today.

Kathy led by example, never asking her children to do anything she wasn't already doing herself. Her legacy continues as her grown children strive to create the same environment she cultivated. When she became a grandmother, her love only expanded. She served her grandchildren with enthusiasm, making each feel like her favorite. Sunday dinners at "Grandma's house" were a cherished tradition. She lovingly made soft tricot blankets for each grandchild, referred to as "silky blankets," so they would always feel wrapped in her love.

Kathy was highly skilled in sewing, creating everything from doll clothes to wedding gowns. She completed countless alterations for family, friends, and anyone in need. Her pantry was always stocked with candy jars and little paper cups for her grandchildren to enjoy. She never missed an opportunity to testify of Jesus Christ's love, encouraging faith, forgiveness, and obedience in their lives.

Kathy loved the outdoors and nature. She was the best-dressed camper, making her camping trailer feel like a cozy home. She prepared delicious meals even while camping and kept a craft drawer in the trailer for rainy days with the kids. Later in life, she and Dale upgraded their camping trailer and enjoyed trips to their favorite spot, Shady Dell Campground on the Mirror Lake Highway, where they enjoyed peaceful walks and reading under the trees.

Kathy was a lover of the beach, the mountains, sunshine, and all animals. Her nurturing spirit knew no limits.

As a family, we know Kathy is healthy, happy, and whole again, continuing to mother and assist from the other side of the veil. We are certain she will be with her children and grandchildren, helping them on their mortal journeys. We are eternally grateful for the knowledge that we will be reunited with her again. We miss her more than words can express.

Kathy will be laid to rest on Friday, January 10, in the Highland, Utah cemetery next to her granddaughter, Madalyn Fillmore.

To join the service for Kathy please click the link below: 

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