Surrounded by family, Kathryn Curtis Barnson passed away at home in Salt Lake City, Utah on Sunday, April 2, 2023 at the age of 75.
Kathy was born October 9, 1947 in Salt Lake City, to Owen Keith and Verla Holman Curtis and grew up at the family’s beloved home on Elm Avenue. She graduated from South High School and completed a bachelor’s degree in elementary education at the University of Utah. She went on to get a master’s degree equivalency and earned the most respected professional certification available in education from The National Board. She was a skilled and hardworking teacher for nearly thirty years. She cared for each student and truly appreciated the bonds she developed with fellow school teachers and administrators.
Kathy married Ray Valden Barnson on August 7, 1975, in the Salt Lake Temple. Her greatest joy was being a mother and grandmother. She was gentle, loving and selfless to a fault. A woman of faith, she was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many ward and stake positions, including, as a pianist where she shared her musical talents. Kathy was a devoted runner and, in later years, jazzercized regularly; both habits resulting in cherished friendship and health. The Avenues Track Club meant much more to her than daily exercise.
Kathy is survived by her husband, Ray, who lovingly, patiently, and diligently cared for her during her final years as she endured vascular dementia. She is also survived by her children, Paul Barnson, Laura Brown (Chris), Sarah Fleming (David), Nate Barnson (Mary), Melissa Barker (Creighton), Amy Andersen, Veronica Raney (Joshua), Kacie Brown (Michael); 23 grandchildren, and her sisters, Lynnette Selander (Phil) and Mary Glauser (Mike). She is preceded in death by her parents, Owen Keith Curtis Sr. and Verla Holman Curtis, as well as her brother, Owen Keith Curtis, Jr., and sister, Jill Curtis Olson.
According to Kathy’s wishes, there will be a small memorial service held for family in her honor. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate it if you would email barnsonkathryn@gmail.com and share a memory of Kathy.
I had Mrs. Barnson as my 1st grade teacher. She was always so patient and kind to me and everyone else. So sorry for your loss. ❤️
My love and prayers to uncle Ray and all of the family. She was beautiful inside and out and always so kind to me. Praying you can find peace at this hard time
Dear Barnson Family, I am so very sorry to hear about the loss of your wife, mother, grandmother. I can truly say that Kathy was one of the loveliest people I’ve met. Her gentle, kind way of speaking always inspired me to do better in my interactions with others. I send my love and condolences to all of you.
RAY AND FAMILY I AM SO SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF KATHY I LOST MY WIFE IN DECEMBER OF TH E SAME THING. I WISH YOU THE BEST .
I’m so sorry for your loss,I loved Kathy❤️Such a good friend🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻💜
I’m so sorry for your loss! Kathy was always kind and welcoming to me 💕.
Mrs. Barnson was my first grade teacher and I adored her. I am a freshman in college now, and I still remember how kind and patient she was with her students. She always had a mother like personality with all of her students and it was always known that she cared so much about all of the people she taught. I was so grateful to have her as a teacher and I learned a lot of great lessons from her. I remember coming back to Highland Park years later and she still remembered me which made me so happy! She influenced so many.❤️❤️
I have fond memories of summer days spent playing at the Barnson's home. I'll never forget the kindness Kathy always showed to me. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Nate and Amy, My most sincere condolences for your loss. We love your family, and are praying for your peace during this difficult time.
Bill Knowlton & Family
I'm so sorry to hear of Dear Kathy passing..She was and is such a sweet Lady..Much love from this part of Curtis Family.. Judy Curtis
My heart-felt condolences are with you Ray and your family. I'm so sorry for the loss of your dear wife and mother of your children, Kathy.
May the lord comfort and bless you all.
With love,
-Dave
I knew Kathy at Jazzercise. She was one of the kindest women I know. I loved seeing her always-smiling face at those early morning workouts. I had no idea she'd passed until I was looking for someone else's obituary. So sorry to hear this.
Growing up… Kathy was like a second mother to me. There is no one kinder, or more sincere than Kathy. Always welcoming and happy. I will never forget her laugh and her brownies. She adored her kids, and was an incredible mom. I will always look up to her and keep her in my heart.
Gone but never forgotten.
Much love to the Barnson family.
Love,
Millie
