Kathryn Elaine Carey, affectionately known as “Mom”, “Maw,” “Mamaw,” and “Kathy,” passed away peacefully in her sleep on June 13, 2025, in El Dorado, Arkansas, after a courageous battle with COPD and cancer. She was 78 years old.
Born on November 27, 1946, in Omaha, Nebraska, Kathy lived a life marked by strength, resilience, and love for her family. Known for her spunky spirit and strong will, Kathy was a hard worker with a big heart. She wasn’t always easy to get along with, but if you knew her, you knew her love was deep and fierce.
Kathy worked for over 20 years at Melvin’s Pharmacy as a technician and cashier before retiring in 2023. Her dedication and personality left a lasting impression on coworkers and customers alike.
A visitation will be held on June 27, from 6–8 p.m. at Young’s Funeral Home. Honoring her wishes, Kathy will be cremated, and her ashes will be laid to rest beside her beloved granddaughter, Linley Holder, at a later date.
Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, William and Catherine Whitney; her siblings, William Whitney, John Whitney, Margie Grutel, James Whitney, Harvey Whitney, Karen Leuhring, Robert Whitney; son Wayne Winchester Jr; and her granddaughter, Linley Holder.
She is survived by her siblings Pat Heron, Daniel Whitney, Beverly Rodgers, Richard Whitney; daughters Rhonda Holder (Max) and Renee Swanner (Jimmy); son Daniel Winchester (Alice); grandchildren Morgan Mahony, (Barton) Melissa Caviness, Josey Langston, (Hayden) Jaret Langston, Brendan Winchester, (Sidney) and Colten Winchester; and great-grandchildren Jackson Caviness, Silas Mahony, Jace Caviness, Lilliann Caviness, Stella Mahony, Walker Langston, Lucy Ryan Langston, Mary Winchester, many Cousins, Nieces, Nephews, and special friends.
Kathy’s strength and spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to teamcorriecancerfoundation.org
