Service Details
A funeral will be held on April 11, 2026, at 2:00 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church (614 Main St.)
A reception will follow the service in the hospitality center.
Memorial Suggestions
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to https://www.alz.org/ to continue the fight against Alzheimer’s.
Kathleen Stark McCarthy, lovingly known as Kathy, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, in Racine, Wisconsin, at the age of 74. Born on October 26, 1951, in Fort Belvoir, Virginia, Kathy was the youngest child of a close-knit military family. Her early years were shaped by her family’s travels and experiences, attending three different high schools before pursuing her passion for education.
Kathy earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Michigan State University and was a proud Spartan throughout her life. Her dedication to teaching led her to Jefferson Elementary in West Allis, where she devoted 34 years to inspiring fifth and sixth graders. Known affectionately as Mrs. Mac by her students and colleagues, Kathy had an extraordinary ability to connect with young minds. Her classrooms were vibrant spaces filled with creativity and innovation. Whether writing play scripts, organizing trips to Six Flags, designing hands-on projects, or creating memorable slide shows, Kathy poured her heart into every aspect of her work. Her efforts extended far beyond the classroom walls as she attended school events and fostered a sense of community that left a lasting impact on hundreds of students and their families.
Kathy’s love for life was evident in everything she did. She had a jovial spirit and a remarkable sense of humor that brought joy to those around her. A talented artist and creator, she found happiness in crafting drawings for art classes or designing elaborate decorations like blinged-out trunks for Trunk-or-Treat events. She cherished the outdoors—whether hiking out west or enjoying time at the beach—and was an avid fan of John Denver’s music.
Above all else, Kathy loved her family fiercely. She shared 43 wonderful years with her husband, Edward McCarthy. Together, they raised their beloved daughter Erin McCarthy Bowman, who brought even more joy into Kathy’s life through her marriage to Christopher Bowman and the arrival of Kathy’s precious granddaughters, Ellery and Charlotte Bowman. Kathy also held a special place in her heart for her many nieces, nephews, and in-laws.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Col. Kenneth Blake Stark Sr. and Eleanor Vergason Stark; as well as her five siblings: Diane Stark Austin, Kenneth Blake Stark Jr., Eileen Stark Rose, William Stark, and Vivian Stark Young. As a proud member of the “Stark Six Pack,” Kathy treasured the bond she shared with her siblings throughout their lives.
Kathy’s huge heart and kind soul made everyone feel welcome and cared for. Her zest for life touched all who knew her—family members, friends, colleagues, students—and created memories that will be cherished forever.
May Kathleen “Kathy” McCarthy’s legacy of love, laughter, creativity, and compassion continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. A funeral will be held on April 11, 2026, at 2:00 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 614 Main St. A reception will follow the service in the hospitality center. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to alz.org to continue the fight against Alzheimer’s.
Larry and Patty Jozwik says
Kathy was a wonderful and loving friend. We were so lucky to have traveled many great places with her and Ed. We had great times playing cards and soaking up the sun and enjoying key lime pie!
She was a true friend and Ed and her would do anything for anyone needing help, we love you Kathy ❤️
Sara Babicky Griffith says
Condolences 💐
Joanne McCarthy says
Kathy was a joy to be around. Even though are families were so far apart when we would get together it was like no time had passed. Kathy had that ability to make you feel right at home.💗
Kathy enjoyed our heart felt talks I will miss you, love you Kathy😔
Helen schwartz says
My sympathy and love. To a special family We considered them as our extended family family for many years and had much joy in our relationship. Helen . Brian. And Deborah Lee. And David.
Cheryl says
I’m so so sorry for your loss. Rest in peace Kathy 🙏
Jill Rekowski says
I am so very sorry to hear of her death and your loss. She was a fantastic teacher! Kathy had all 3 of my children at some point from 1996 – 2003 at Jefferson Elementary School. She was literally one of the best. Craig, Brandon and Brittney all enjoyed her style of teaching and creativity. She did a great job stretching and challenging each one of my kids. From building castles as a family project to having one of our sons do 6th grade math the summer between 5th & 6th grade. She could see the abilities of every student and with that stretch in 6th grade he did the 7th grade math book. With that gentle push from Mrs. Mac it lead him to become an engineer.
Nancy Sander says
Kathy was a wonderful person! My sympathies to Erin and her family. Anyone who knew Kathy knew that you, your family and your dad were the most important people in her life. She loved you all fiercely. She and Ed were good friends to Bob and I, as well . I’m so sorry for your loss. She will be missed by many.
Emery Von Gulner says
Mrs. Mac was my 6th grade teacher and she was my favoritest teacher ever! She was such a awesome person and left a huge impact on my young life. She always had the most beautiful smile and would light up the classroom ever year. I even went back after I graduated from Jefferson and visited with her and she was so proud of the person I became. We lost touch after that but I did think about her from time to time cause she was my favorite teacher ever. She will be missed by so many. I’m so sad to find this news out today. She might not be physically here but her light will never go out cause I know I’m not the only 1 of her students that say she was there favorite teacher. Until we meet again Mrs. Mac rest in peace my friend. You might be gone but will never be forgotten
Ira Rock says
My condolences to a good friend Ed and his lovely daughter. In the few times that I was in Kathleen’s presence, it was clear to me that she was a gentle, compassionate and humble person. No need to speak about yourself, only to show your true feelings and character by how you treat and help others. She was that kind of person. We are all thankful to God for the time that we have spent with a loved one. Just remember that each day is a blessing and it is those times that Ed and his friends will remember.