Kathleen May (O’Connell) Hamilton, a beacon of laughter and love, has left the stage of life at the age of 78. Born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, on July 19, 1945, she embarked on her final journey on June 27, 2024, in Niles, Michigan. She was the kind of person who could light up a room with her humor, and even now, we can almost hear her chuckling, saying, “Don’t take life too seriously. You’ll never get out of it alive,” a sentiment borrowed from the great Elbert Hubbard.
Kathleen’s early years in Kalamazoo set the stage for a life characterized by a joyous spirit and a hearty laugh that could be heard echoing through the halls of her alma mater upon her high school graduation. It was there that she fell head over heels for her high school sweetheart, Donald Jay Hamilton, with whom she shared a love story that lasted over 60 years, until Donald’s final bow. Together, they created a family that includes two daughters, three grandchildren who were the apples of her eye, and four great-grandchildren who were her pride and joy.
Her family tree extended branches in many directions, with roots that included her late father, Joseph F. O’Connell, her late mother, Thelma (Hardenbrook) Moore, and three brothers who shared in the cacophony of laughter that defined the O’Connell household. Kathleen’s role as an exceptional Gigi, “Cakai,” and Grandma was the part she played to standing ovations every time, never missing a recital, a birthday, or a chance to make her family feel loved.
Kathleen’s interests painted a picture of a woman with a zest for life that was contagious. She was a huge fan of Doris Day and Rock Hudson movies, reveling in the romantic comedies that mirrored her own love story. Her bookshelf was filled with James Patterson thrillers, which she devoured with the same enthusiasm she had for a well-mixed margarita. And speaking of enthusiasm, when Jackie Wilson’s music played, Kathleen was the first to hit the dance floor, twirling with a grace and energy that belied her years.
Her sense of humor was a defining characteristic, and she was known for being as funny as she was kind and selfless. To quote the inimitable Phyllis Diller, “A smile is a curve that sets everything straight.” Kathleen lived by that philosophy, straightening out life’s wrinkles with a joke, a story, or a kind gesture.
In this final act, we remember Kathleen May (O’Connell) Hamilton for the countless moments of joy she brought into our lives. Her laughter will echo in the hearts of those she’s left behind, a legacy more potent than any punchline. She was the epitome of selflessness, a woman who put others before herself and found her greatest happiness in the happiness of her family.
Photos, memories and condolences can be left for Kathleen’s family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com,
Those wishing to make a memorial donation have been asked to direct them to the family at Brown Funeral Home, 521 East Main Street, Niles, MI.
As we bid farewell to Kathleen, we do so with the knowledge that her spirit will remain with us, in the stories we share, the memories we cherish, and the laughter that continues in her honor. She may have left the stage, but her performance as a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and hilarious friend will be talked about, with standing ovations, for years to come.
So, let’s raise a margarita glass to Kathleen—a woman who never missed a beat, who read like a fiend, and who danced her way through life. Here’s to you, Kathleen, for reminding us that life is indeed a comedy, and you played one of the funniest roles of all. Curtain call, dear lady, and take your well-deserved bow.
Posted On: Tuesday, July 2, 2024 3:19 PM
