Kathryn (Schnell) Hawes

Kathryn “Kay” Hawes (née Schnell), age 87, passed away on April 2, 2025, in Normandy Park, Washington.

Born on May 17, 1937, in Columbus, Georgia; she grew up surrounded by a large extended family. Kay lived a life marked by curiosity and kindness. A lifelong Methodist, she especially cherished her time teaching Sunday School.

Kay had an insatiable curiosity about the world around her, which was reflected in her own education. She received a BA from Huntington College in 1959, and then her Masters from Auburn University in 1962, and ultimately a PhD in Education from Kansas State University in 1984. First a teacher and later a college instructor, she spent her career educating others.

She was known for asking MANY questions of anyone and everyone she encountered. Her quick wit and warm demeanor made her a joy to be around even when running her own personal inquisition about what/why/where you were doing/holding/going. She also had her finger on the pulse of everything happening within ear or eye-shot and very little escaped her notice.

She was an avid reader, particularly mystery novels. She also delighted in crafting handmade greeting cards, and would often send them with a note written on a separate piece of paper so the receiver could re-use the card. When her eyesight made it hard to read or craft, she enjoyed watching procedural dramas on television with her daughter and son-in-law, and their beloved cat, who she always called “Sweetheart” even though that was not his name.

Kay is survived by her daughter Lyda Hawes and son-in-law Brian Vance; her sister Mary Lou Mayfield; and her ex-husband turned life-long friend, Joe Hawes (m 1963, div 1987). She was preceded in death by her son John Hawes and her brother Frank Schnell.

A private memorial will be held on May 17, 2025 in Normandy Park.

- Care Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home -