By Melanie Tuttle
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    • Service

      A Celebration of Life will be held by the family at a later date.

    • Full Obituary

      Katherine B. West, 85, of Collinsville, IL, died Friday, August 30, 2024, peacefully at her home surrounded by her family.

      She was born January 24, 1939, to Burl and Mildred (nee Harris) Andrews, in Collinsville, IL.

      Katherine was an extraordinary cook, known for her mouthwatering spaghetti, comforting chicken and dumplings, and savory ham and beans. She had a gift for transforming simple ingredients into meals that nourished both body and soul. Katherine always made sure there was more than enough to share, and no one ever left her home hungry. Her kitchen was a place where family, friends, and neighbors were welcomed with open arms and left with full hearts and satisfied appetites. A sweet treat was always waiting, a testament to her love for baking, which delighted everyone who had the pleasure of enjoying her confections.

      In addition to her culinary talents, Katherine was a woman of many skills and passions. She had a knack for all things crafty, spending countless hours sewing, doing embroidery, and creating beautiful decorations that made her home a warm and inviting place, especially during the holidays. Her green thumb was the envy of all who knew her, as she lovingly tended to her houseplants and garden, which flourished under her care.

      Katherine was a strong, independent woman who loved her family above all else. As the cornerstone of her family, she was a source of unwavering support, love, and guidance. Her strength, kindness, and caring nature will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

      She is preceded in death by her parents, Burl and Mildred Andrews; stepfather, Dominic Ponzetti; brothers, Kenneth “Bud” Andrews, Victor Andrews; daughter, Melissa Mumper.

      She is survived by her brother, Jim Andrews; son, Kenneth Woodley; granddaughter, Jami Mumper; great-grandson, Cade Williams; many other extended family members and friends.

      Memorials may be made to the American Lung Association

      Plant a tree in memory of Katherine here.

      Katherine has generously donated her body to science at Washington University Medical School, still caring for and helping others after her passing.

      A Celebration of Life will be held by the family at a later date.

      Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, Collinsville, IL.

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    3 Condolences
     
    1. Kenneth Woodley / August 30, 2024 at 5:02 pm

      I Love You Mom, you always were there for us, thick and thin it didn’t matter, you were always there, made sure we had everything we needed.
      I’m going to miss you terribly, and I will always Love you, and think of you often, Mom.
      Love, Your Son,
      Kenny

    2. Lisa Frerker / August 30, 2024 at 9:26 pm

      Hugs love and prayers to you and your family during this difficult time

    3. Mary Breihan / October 30, 2024 at 11:33 pm

      Prayers of comfort and peace to family, friends and all who loved her. She was always kind and giving of herself. She worked so hard and gave so much 💕🙏🏻✝️

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