Kathleen Rose (McLaughlin) Hammond of Oak Harbor was peacefully called from her home to be with the angels on the morning of July 2, 2012. Kathleen was 88 years old and was born in Springfield, Ill., on Jan. 26, 1924. Her Irish immigrant parents, Patrick and Winnifred McLaughlin, instilled in her great pride in her Irish-American heritage which she passed on to her family.

On August 11, 1943, Kathleen married the love of her life and high school sweetheart, Gerald Hammond, in Memphis, Tenn. shortly after he joined the Navy. During their 68 years of marriage together, Kathleen spent her life caring for her husband and family throughout Gerald’s military service in WWII and civilian careers, which moved them all over the country. She was also active in community, church and charitable organizations in Bellevue, Issaquah and Oak Harbor.

Kathleen had a deep love and devotion to her family and was also dedicated to helping others and connecting with everyone she met. She demonstrated all a strong woman can be.

Kathleen was preceded in death by her son, Dennis, earlier this year. Surviving Kathleen are her beloved husband, Gerald Leon, her children, Gerry, Michael, Kathleen, and Greg, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Kathleen is also survived by her sister Mary, Mary’s family and beloved friends. She will be greatly missed by all those whose lives she touched.