Hello to all, I hope you are each doing well.

*****

This week I share the very sad news of the passing of a very dear friend, an amazing woman who was truly a friend to all who knew her … Kate Hart McConnell.

These sweet loving words were written by her devoted daughter, Tamra Kay McConnell:

“My mom was one of those rare people who seem to carry strength and softness in a perfect balance. I always thought she was so beautiful and so talented. My mother had a way of speaking her mind and was a little outspoken, but it always came from a place of honesty and her heart. Her kindness wasn’t passive, it was active and intentional, something she chose every day and how she treated others, and how she moved through this world. Being around her made me feel grounded … no matter what was happening there was always a sense of care and steadiness. At the same time, she was incredibly tough and driven. She faced challenges, head on, with the resilience that made it clear she wasn’t someone who gives up easily. The way she was able to balance determination with compassion was unique. It made her not just strong, but inspiring. Not only did she teach me in words, but with example. She taught me what it means to keep going, to stay true to yourself, and to lead with both heart and courage. She wasn’t just my mother … She was someone I deeply admired. The impact she had on me will always be a part of who I am. She lived a very big life. My mom loved horses and played a very big role in the equine world. From the Racetrack, and the Rodeo Arena to the everyday Cowboy lifestyle. Her absence is deeply felt, but so is her presence in the knowledge and memories she left me. I will love you forever my beautiful Mother …”

*****

I would also like to add a few words about the love so many of us here in Valley Home felt for Kate. She had no boundaries when it came to helping people; she was always right there when one of us needed her. Her love was unconditional. Kate’s love of our Valley Home community was well known. I remember well the countless hours, the endless days we walked precincts trying to pass measures to fund our Valley Home Fire House; the many hours she spent as a 4-H Leader; the patience, the love and the knowledge she shared with our youth. I remember her working long hours to help pass the school bond to build our beautiful Bonnie Gellerman Gymnasium at Valley Home School. She along with so many others worked tirelessly to raise funds to build our beautiful Valley Home Community Park. She was a devoted room mother at Valley Home School during all the years her precious daughter Tamra went to Valley Home. Kate was at the very first meeting, the first planning meeting to make our Valley Home Harvest Festival a reality. She was involved in so many activities in Valley Home, our Lighted Christmas Parade and so much more, even in the surrounding communities, she loved to help. Kate was a giver … she was a very special woman and will be forever missed by so many. We love you, Kate.

Her daughter Tamra will be sharing information for Kate’s Celebration of Life at a later date.

*****

Please remember Thursday, March 26 is the Celebration of Life for our dear Valley Home neighbor Garry Steele, 10:30am at Burwood Cemetery with a reception to follow at Escalon Sportsman Club. The family requests that in lieu of flowers please make any donation to our Valley Home Community Park.

For those of you who would like to bring a dessert for the reception, Garry’s favorite was chocolate …

We love you, Garry, you will be forever missed here in Valley Home.

*****

If you have information you would like to put in this column, my email is winniemullins51@gmail.com

You may also text or telephone information to me at 209-985-5233.