Kathryn Waddle Obituary

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Kathryn McCausland Waddle on October 4, 2024, after a short illness. Born in Rockville Centre, NY to Henry and Jane Lett, Kathy lived a life filled with compassion, dedication, and love. She touched the lives of many and will be fondly remembered for her warm heart and fun-loving spirit.

A 1957 graduate of Hofstra University, Kathy found her passion in teaching and became an elementary educator in a career spanning 47 years, where she positively impacted the lives of nearly 1,000 children. The last 30 years of her career were spent at Good Shepherd Episcopal School in Dallas, where she pioneered the Primer class, a groundbreaking program designed to give kindergartners an additional year of growth and adjustment before starting formal first grade. Kathy's innovative approach, focused on nurturing each child's unique developmental needs, became a hallmark of her educational philosophy, and the program's success continues to impact students today.

Kathy shared 40 wonderful years of marriage with Gordon "Bud" McCausland, until his passing in 1998. Several years later, Kathy found love again and married Boyd Waddle, with whom she shared 13 joyful years until his passing in 2017. Kathy lived a life full of love and joy, focused on her large family where she was a very proud Mom, Grandma and Gigi.

On top of a packed social schedule with her community of family and dear friends, Kathy was a passionate volunteer who dedicated much of her time serving charities and causes she strongly believed in. She volunteered and served on the boards of various organizations, including The Nick Gonzales Foundation for Brain Tumor Research, North Dallas Women's Club, the Antiquers and the Walden HOA board. Her commitment to helping others extended beyond the classroom and into every aspect of her life, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her.

Kathy was preceded in death by her husbands Bud and Boyd, her parents Henry and Jane Lett, and her son Bob McCausland. She is survived by her brothers Al Lett and Hank Lett (Peggy). She is also survived by her children: Peggy Shea (Kevin), Bill McCausland (Anne), Jim McCausland (Anne), nine grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and Boyd's family. She is also remembered fondly by countless friends who loved her dearly.

Kathy's memory will continue to inspire, and her magic will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. The family would like to extend a special thanks to Celina and the staff of caregivers at Altius Senior Living for their compassionate care of Kathy.

A celebration of Kathy's life will be held at Mary Immaculate Catholic Church in Farmers Branch on November 4 at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Nick Gonzales Foundation for Brain Tumor Research.