Kathy Murphy

Kathy Raabe Murphy, 57, of Huntsville, Ala., formerly of Butler, lost her courageous seven-year battle with cancer on Sunday surrounded by her family.

She was the daughter of Mary Hindman Raabe and the late James L. Raabe.

Kathy was the loving wife of Mark Palfreeman, who she married on March 8, 1996. She is survived by her two sons, Jason (Lisa) and Mark (Rocio); her daughter, Brandee; her eight grandchildren; and her great-grandchild.

Kathy worked for the CAS, a defense contractor, until her retirement in 2007.

She loved spending time with her grandchildren, nieces and nephews, who were the loves of her life, including her longtime companion, Sasha, her dog and pal.

Her hobbies were scrapbooking with her friends and sisters and Stampin'Up cards to send to family and friends who all enjoyed her talents.

Gardening was always on the “to do list,” which she credits to her mom for the many hours of enjoyment and beauty it gave her.

Her collection of Snow Babies, Hummels and Dreamsicles filled her and Mark's beautiful home.

“Santa” letters always arrived to the grandchildren, nieces and nephews yearly from Kathy, a tradition that will be truly missed.

Going to garage and estate sales with her sisters was always a true adventure and “treasures” were always found.

She will be greatly missed by her mother; her sisters, Susie (Butch) McGary and Mary Kay (Tim) Greenawalt, and her brother, Jimmy (Terri) Raabe, along with her nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her father, Jim; her niece, Allie; her grandparents; her mother-in-law; and her sister-in-law.

Murphy— A private memorial service for Kathy Raabe Murphy, who passed away Sunday, Nov. 30, 2014, will be at the convenience of the family per Kathy's wishes.