Kathleen Cecelia Browne

Obituary Kathleen (Cleary) Browne Kathleen-Katie-died peacefully at her home September 26th with her daughter Shannon by her side. Katie was born January 22, 1924 in Ione, Washington, the middle child of seven born to Leslie T. and Alice Hambrook Cleary. She grew up in Centralia, Spokane and Tacoma, graduating from Stadium High School in 1942. She married John H. (Jack) Browne right after, following him around the country as he trained to be a fly boy in the Army Air Corps. Their oldest son was born as Jack prepared for his station in Italy, and they contributed four more Baby Boomers after the war, settling first in Tacoma, then moving to Richland for 11 years, then to Seattle, and finally retiring back in Tacoma in 1988. Those long train and car trips kindled her love of travel and she visited Tahiti, the Caribbean, all but four states, and made several trips to Europe with her sister-in-law Bettie. She was an avid gardener and loved shopping, cooking, and entertaining friends and family. She was proud of her Irish Catholic heritage, passionate about her politics, and always an involved member of her local parish. She also had a wonderful voice and starred in several light opera productions as well as plays in Richland and Seattle. She always loved "outfits" and was sure to be wearing o' the green on St. Paddy's day and a costume on Halloween. But the role she cherished most was that of Grammie to her 18 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren, who miss her already and not just because she peeled their grapes and always made sure there was different candy in ALL the candy bowls. She was a force of nature, a loving mother, mother-in-law, sister, sister-in-law, doting auntie to 44 nieces and nephews and their offspring, devoted friend and the life of any party. She will be greatly missed by all of those whose lives she touched. Vigil services are Sunday, October 3rd, 6p.m., at Gaffney's Funeral Home, Tacoma. A funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 4th at St. Patrick's Church in Tacoma, followed by a reception in the parish hall. Please leave online condolences at www.GaffneyCares.com.