Mary Kathleen Searcey

Mary Kathleen Searcey was called Home in the early morning hours of July 6, 2023, at the age of 96.

Kathleen was born on February 9, 1927, in Pendleton, OR to parents Frank and Marie Kopp. She grew up on the family’s cattle ranch in Pilot Rock, OR, and some of her fondest memories were of working alongside her dad on the ranch. She helped her mom cook for their family of six and became an expert pie maker, a talent that brought joy to many people throughout her life.

As a child, Kathleen went to the local country school, later moving to Pendleton to attend St. Joseph’s Academy, where she graduated as Valedictorian of her class. After high school, she worked for First National Bank and cared for her younger siblings as they attended school.

Kathleen was married to Fred Searcey from 1948-1979 and devoted her life to raising their four children. In 1970, the family moved to Woodland, WA, for a few years before relocating to Walla Walla in 1975. After her children were raised, she worked as an office assistant before retiring to spend more time with her grandchildren.

Among some of her favorite things in life were nature, reading, and writing epic letters. She was an avid sports fan and an athlete in her own right. Kathleen grew beautiful roses, and her home was always filled with lovely bouquets from her garden. She was an amazing cook and baker and liked to enjoy an ice-cold beer at 4:00 each day!

Kathleen is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Marie Kopp; her brothers, Charlie Kopp and Paul Kopp; her son, Thomas Searcey; and granddaughter, Meagan Mullanix.

She is survived by her sister, Margaret McLaughlin of Pendleton; children, Mary Dauchy (Tom) of Walla Walla, Susan Singh of Anchorage, AK, and Sally Mullanix (Mitch) of Everett, WA; grandchildren, David Searcey, Kathy Cornejo, Melissa Fortin (Brian), and Kacey Mullanix; as well as multiple great (and great-great) grandchildren.

Kathleen taught us so much through her faith, courage, contentment, and love, and we were so blessed to have had her in our lives. We will forever miss you, sweet lady. Hoping there’s a big huckleberry patch in Heaven for you!

A funeral Service will be held on Saturday, July 22, 2023, at 10:00 am, at the Chapel of the Herring Funeral Home, 315 W Alder St, Walla Walla, with Deacon Jim Barrow officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Assumption Catholic Church, Seattle Children’s Hospital, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W. Alder St., Walla Walla, WA 99362. In addition, friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.herringgroseclose.com.