Katherine “Kathy” Louise Peterson, 73, of Conway, South Carolina, and formerly of Las Vegas, Nevada, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025. Born in the coastal town of Astoria, Oregon, on April 7, 1952, Kathy lived a life rooted in love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family, friends, faith, and community.

The daughter of Joseph Paul and Colleen Hensley, Kathy grew up surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, which helped shape her warm heart and strong spirit. She had a lifelong love for animals—dogs, cats, and even her beloved pig were part of the joyful menagerie she cared for over the years.

Kathy cherished her family above all else. She is survived by her devoted husband, Byron Peterson; her sons and daughters-in-law, Corey and Linda Brech of Astoria, Oregon, and Barry and Krista Peterson of Culpeper, Virginia. She was a proud and loving grandmother to six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Her deep bond with her sister, Susan Ulmer, and brother-in-law, Ed Ulmer, of Vancouver, Washington, brought her great joy, and she shared a special relationship with Dea Helligso of Astoria, Oregon, whom she lovingly considered her “adopted” little sister.

She also leaves behind a cherished extended family of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. Throughout her life, Kathy was blessed with a multitude of friends who became family to her. Her vibrant spirit, kind heart, and generous nature touched everyone she met, and she maintained close and meaningful friendships across every chapter of her life.

Kathy had a deep appreciation for the arts and delighted in dance, theater, concerts, and time spent with loved ones. In addition to her love for dance, Kathy proudly contributed her talents as a choreographer, assisting with the Miss Oregon pageant; an experience that combined her passion for the performing arts with her commitment to empowering others.

Her passion for connection and service led her to active roles in organizations such as the Astoria Anchor Club, McMinnville Sunrise Rotary, the Henderson Chamber of Commerce, and the Daughters of the American Revolution. She was also a faithful member of Christ the Servant Lutheran Church in Conway, South Carolina, where her kindness and quiet strength enriched the lives of many in her congregation.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Paul and Colleen Hensley, whose love and guidance remained a constant presence in her life.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday July 19, 2025, in the Log Building at Camp Rilea, Warrenton Oregon at 1:30 PM to honor Kathy’s remarkable spirit and the joy she brought to all who knew her.  All are welcome to attend. The family is honoring Kathy by wearing vibrant colors if you are able to take part one of her favorite colors was yellow, but also reds, teal, and blue. Please feel free to wear business casual attire with a splash of color. Thank you!

Address for the Celebration of Life: Log Classroom Building 7425, Camp Rilea Armed Forces Training Center 33168 Patriot Way Warrenton, OR 97146.

Please be prepared to show proper ID (DL Real ID, U.S Passport, or Military ID) at the gate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Kathy’s memory may be made to the following animal welfare organizations, a cause close to her heart:

Horry County Animal Shelter

ASPCA

Clatsop County Animal Shelter

Kathy’s legacy is one of compassion, creativity, and a life filled with love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.