Kathleen Carey Dawson Duckett

Kathleen Carey Dawson Duckett (91) passed away peacefully at her home on December 11, 2023, surrounded by family and loved ones.  She was born in San Francisco, CA on April 17, 1932, to the late Admiral Kenneth V. Dawson and Kathleen C. Dawson.  She was predeceased by her son Douglas D. Duckett, and daughters Kathleen D. Moldthan and Carey V. Duckett, and her beloved sister, Barbara Inman. She is survived by her husband Capt. Philip V.H.L. Duckett (USN/Retired), her children Philip Duckett Jr. (aka Buzzy and wife Meg), Penny Crumpton (Jay), Duvy Duckett (Sheila), and John Duckett (Courtney).  She is also survived by her siblings Margaret Kraft and Kenneth Dawson.  She is survived by her wonderful grandchildren who will carry on her legacy: Lucas Crumpton (Ashley), Megan Duckett (Whit), Mary Duckett, Philip Duckett III, John Moldthan Jr., Dougie Duckett (Emily), Tommy Moldthan, Jack Crumpton (Brook), Katie Duckett, Will Crumpton (Tori), Retta Duckett, Leighton Duckett, Penn Duckett, as well as several nieces and nephews that she treated like her own children.

Kathleen and her husband, Philip, were married in Washington D.C. on May 8, 1953. They shared 70 years of marriage filled with laughter and love. As a career Navy family, they were stationed throughout the country, including Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; Coronado, CA; and Norfolk, VA. They resided in Annapolis, Maryland until Capt. Duckett retired from the U.S. Navy, at which time they moved to St. Louis. They lived in the Parkview community in St. Louis and were parishioners of St. Roch’s Catholic Church for over 40 years, then moved to the family home place in Blanch, NC.

Kathleen was known for her boundless sense of humor, infectious smile, and a heart that embraced everyone she ever met. She had a love for turtles and birds that gave her peace and happiness. Her infectious laughter echoed through the rooms, and her vivacious spirit brought joy to all who knew her. Kathleen was the center of love for many people, and her compassion extended beyond her own family.  She was a foster parent for over 50 children through Lutheran Family Services in St. Louis.  Her home was always open to friends and family; and was a safe haven for many people. She and Philip were known to take in friends and family when they needed a place to call home.

Kathleen leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and kindness. Her memory will forever be cherished by her wonderful grandchildren and the countless lives she touched with her radiant spirit and giving heart.

Many special thanks to her numerous caregivers for their exceptional compassionate and loving care, especially Debbie Capel, Wendy Alford, Cassie Rogers, Gray Alford and Jennifer Bates, as well as her AuthoraCare Hospice Team.

The family will receive friends at their home on Friday, December 15, 2023, from 2:00 PM until 4 PM. A celebration of life will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in her honor to Lutheran Family and Children’s Services of St. Louis, MO or to AuthoraCare Hospice of Burlington, NC.