Mary Kathleen (Kathy) McCotter, beloved wife, mother and friend, passed away January 23, 2017 peacefully in her home, surrounded by her family.
Kathy was born on August 25, 1944, in Nampa Idaho to V.K. (Jep) and Ferne Jeppesen; the second of three children. She had a passion for life and learning and boundless energy. She had a gift for seeing beauty; in the world, and in people. She loved mountains, horses, the smell of pine trees, gingerbread, walking on cobblestone streets, flower gardens, cowbells, art and music. She was an accomplished pianist and harpist. As a trained hospice volunteer, she played her harp to comfort those in her care. In 2002, she volunteered for the Olympic and Paralympic games, serving as attaché for the Ukrainian Paralympic team.
She married her dearest love, Orson Lane McCotter, in the Salt Lake Temple on June 12,1964. Most of all, Kathy loved being a wife and mother to their two daughters (Heidi and Felicia) and three sons (Monte, Tate, and Cade). Her 15 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren will forever be blessed by their devoted granny, who made each one of them feel deeply loved and special. Kathy cherished her membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and joyfully served the Lord and others with all her heart and strength.
In 2007, Kathy was diagnosed with oral cancer. She faced her health challenges with courage and optimism; finding strength in the love of family and friends and through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Kathy is survived by her beloved husband, Lane; children Felicia (Ralph) Tafuri, Heidi (Steve) Pugmire, Tate (Stacee) McCotter, Cade (Ashley) McCotter; brother David (Artchara) Jeppesen, and sister Karma (Hal) Bingham. She was preceded in death by her parents, and by her son Monte Lane McCotter.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Humanitarian or Missionary Fund of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or a charity of your choice.
The family wishes to express their deep gratitude for the countless acts of service and prayers offered in behalf of Kathy, and for those who provided her with such excellent medical care.
There will be viewings held on Friday, January 27 from 6-8pm, and on Saturday, January 28 from 9-10:30am at the Midway LDS Stake Center, 165 North Center Street, Midway, Utah. Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 28 at the Midway Stake Center.