Surrounded by family, Kathryn Curtis Barnson passed away at home in Salt Lake City, Utah on Sunday, April 2, 2023 at the age of 75.

Kathy was born October 9, 1947 in Salt Lake City, to Owen Keith and Verla Holman Curtis and grew up at the family’s beloved home on Elm Avenue. She graduated from South High School and completed a bachelor’s degree in elementary education at the University of Utah. She went on to get a master’s degree equivalency and earned the most respected professional certification available in education from The National Board. She was a skilled and hardworking teacher for nearly thirty years. She cared for each student and truly appreciated the bonds she developed with fellow school teachers and administrators.

Kathy married Ray Valden Barnson on August 7, 1975, in the Salt Lake Temple. Her greatest joy was being a mother and grandmother. She was gentle, loving and selfless to a fault. A woman of faith, she was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many ward and stake positions, including, as a pianist where she shared her musical talents. Kathy was a devoted runner and, in later years, jazzercized regularly; both habits resulting in cherished friendship and health. The Avenues Track Club meant much more to her than daily exercise.

Kathy is survived by her husband, Ray, who lovingly, patiently, and diligently cared for her during her final years as she endured vascular dementia. She is also survived by her children, Paul Barnson, Laura Brown (Chris), Sarah Fleming (David), Nate Barnson (Mary), Melissa Barker (Creighton), Amy Andersen, Veronica Raney (Joshua), Kacie Brown (Michael); 23 grandchildren, and her sisters, Lynnette Selander (Phil) and Mary Glauser (Mike). She is preceded in death by her parents, Owen Keith Curtis Sr. and Verla Holman Curtis, as well as her brother, Owen Keith Curtis, Jr., and sister, Jill Curtis Olson.

According to Kathy’s wishes, there will be a small memorial service held for family in her honor. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate it if you would email barnsonkathryn@gmail.com and share a memory of Kathy.