The family of Kathleen “Kate” Rye is sad announce that she has passed, just before dawn on Tuesday, February 5, 2019. She died peacefully, with her daughter Barbara and her niece Amy at her side. The cause of death was complications related to a recent fall at her home in Winchester, Kentucky.

The family is deeply thankful to those who assisted Kate in her final days. Though she died a month short of her 92nd birthday, Kate was a very independent woman. Her best friends and companions were her sister, Betty June Bailey, and her bothers Bill Green and Morris Green. Kate was a member of the Salem Presbyterian Church in Winchester. Her niece, Amy Green Harms, was her dedicated caregiver in recent years. Kate also enjoyed a special relationship with her devoted grandson, Brian Daniel.

Kate Green Rye was born in Winchester, Kentucky and spent her entire life there. Her husband, Ira S. Rye, was a Master Carpenter who died 30 years ago. Kate was an accomplished homemaker, cook and seamstress, known for her beautiful hand sewn quilts. For many years Kate lived alone at the family home. Recently, she moved into an apartment near her beloved sister, Betty June Bailey. The sisters continued to enjoy outings with their brothers, and attended church together.

Kate was also preceded in death by her beloved son David Rye. In addition to her siblings, Kate is survived by her daughter Barbara (Clark) Whitt, of Key West, Florida, daughter-in-law Cheryl (David) Rye, grandson Brian Clay Daniel, granddaughters Shelly Rye and Stacey Tapp, great grandsons Jaxon and Gavin Carruba, her best friend Hazel Bush, as well as many nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors.

Barbara Whitt expresses special thanks to her cousin, Amy Harms, who miraculously managed to fly with her ailing and elderly Aunt Kate from Lexington Kentucky to Key West just days before she died. Dr. Rocky Tingle is much appreciated for his medical and compassionate guidance. Arron Castillo, Key West Mortuary, delivered his services with kindness and respect. Barbara also thanks her special friends, “my angels”, who came to her home with love and support for Barbara and Clark.

Kate Rye’s life will be celebrated with services at her church in Kentucky. The dates will be announced later in the spring.