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Obituary for ROYCE


Published in the Albuquerque Journal on Wednesday June 30, 2010

Kathleen T. Royce, 66, passed away Saturday afternoon June 26, 2010 at her home after struggling bravely for a month with cancer. Kathy had been in remission for over a year and seemed in the best shape of her many years. She was widely admired for her energy and zest for life. Kathy was born on March 5, 1944, and grew up in Illiopolis, Illinois. She attended Illiopolis High School and Illinois State University-Normal before marrying the love of her life in 1964. In 1974 she moved to Tempe, AZ, and moved again in 1982 to Albuquerque, NM. Once her youngest child reached school age, she went to work for many years in business administration and customer service. Kathy is survived by her husband of 46 years, Cecil; her five children Michael and Stefanie Royce, Patrick and Yvonne Royce, Daniel and Carrie Royce, Theresa and David Rodgers, and Christopher Royce; and her beloved grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother, Catherine Caroline Kilhoffer, and her father, Francis Michael Murphy. Kathy was a strong woman, not easily deterred by the trials of life. Her greatest and most lasting achievements were the fulfilled lives of her husband, kids and grandkids. She had a gift for recognizing and appreciating the passions of others and investing her own energy in their success. Every sporting event, every dance recital, and every family affair no matter how small was enhanced by Kathy's booming support. She leaves her loved ones with the knowledge that they were central to her life, esteemed and cherished. Mom, Grandma, Sweetheart: The values you've taught, the care you've given, and the wonderful love you've shown, have enriched our lives in more ways than we can count. We will miss you. Mass will be celebrated at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, July 2, 2010, at St. Bernadette's Catholic Church, 11401 Indian School Road, NE. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Harmony Home Health & Hospice (www.harmonyhomehealth.com) or Stand Up 2 Cancer (www.standup2cancer.org). Please visit our online guestbook for Kathy at RememberTheirStory.com French 10500 Lomas Blvd. NE (505) 275-3500