Katherine Vick James, age 63, passed away on Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024 at home surrounded by her loving family. Kathy grew up in Memphis, TN attending Elliston Baptist Academy. She received her bachelor's and master's in education at Memphis State University. Kathy was a special education teacher for 31 years in Memphis City Schools. She touched the lives of many children during this time. Kathy loved traveling with her husband Don all over the country. They followed the Memphis Tigers from coast to coast as a pair of their biggest fans. Kathy traveled with her daughter to Nicaragua twice on a mission trip. Her favorite parts of the trip were working with the students with special needs and ziplining over an inactive volcano.

Kathy is survived by her husband Donald James; three children Wendy Newman (Clayton), Justin Vick, and John James (Carolyn); 6 grandchildren Tyler Pannell, Ethan Pannell, Kailey Winstead, Lily Ann Winstead, Heath James, and Lincoln Vick; and sister Renee Lambert. Kathy is reunited in heaven with her mother Loretta Irvin and father S.T. Irvin.

The family is respecting Kathy's wishes and having a small memorial service for immediate family only.
In lieu of flowers the family is asking for donations to the Special Olympics in Kathy's name.