Katherine Ralston

Katherine P. (Bridges) Ralston, 86 of Kalamazoo County passed away August 2, 2024, after a long battle with dementia.

Kay was born on December 13, 1937, to James & Lillian Bridges in Royal Oak, MI. She attended Wayne State University and Western Michigan University. She spent her working years doing secretarial work and real estate. She worked for Richland Presbyterian Church, Gull Lake Bible Church, Michigan Reading Association, and was a substitute bus driver for Gull Lake School District.

Kay was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 46 years, James Ralston, her parents, her brother, Donald Bridges, and son in law, Mike Irwin. Kay is survived by four daughters from her first marriage and a stepdaughter from her second marriage. Sally (Carl) Barber, Carrie (John) Hine, Rhonda (Steve) Broekema, Patti (Scott) Sampley and Nancy (Mark) Enyart; and several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Kay was a very crafty person and had many interests. Her hobbies included: quilting, playing piano and the hammered dulcimer, motorcycling, singing, dancing, camping, playing tennis, and spending time with her family and friends. She always had an extra place at the table for anyone that needed a meal. Kay had an enormous love for animals, especially cats and took in many strays over the years. After retirement, she enjoyed spending winters in Alabama, Florida, and Texas. She loved Jesus and was very involved in the different churches she attended.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Thursday, August 29 at Calvary Bible Church, 855 S. Drake Rd. Kalamazoo, MI. You are welcome to join the family for visitation from 10:00 to 11:00 am with a service at 11:00 am. There will be a light luncheon immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to: Centrica Care Navigators (Hospice) or Michigan Great Lakes Chapter Alzheimer's Association.