Obituary of Kathryn Cafazo

“Forsake not your mother’s teaching. Bind them on your heart always; tie them around your neck.”

from Proverbs 6:20-21

Kathryn Ann Cafazo, nee Heileman, 73 of Independence, KY passed away on Saturday, October 12, 2024 after spending her last Friday night and Saturday morning in the loving company of many close family members. Born on January 22, 1951 she was the daughter of Edward and Alice [Willis] Heileman.

As a professional care-giver and lifetime resident of Greater Cincinnati, Kathy loved nothing more in life than spending time with and taking care of her family, and she spent all of her years doing just that. Her sense of humor was unique as she had an uncanny ability to find something to smile and laugh about in all situations. She often used this ability to cheer up others at just the right time. Kathy was also a music lover and could listen for hours to her favorite songs, which spanned across decades of musical variety.

Kathy was the beloved wife of Lawrence Cafazo, and the loving mother to her children Tony (Kim) Cafazo, Angie (Dan S.) Cafazo, and her predeceased infant, John, who is now enjoying her motherly embrace. She was a cherished grandmother to David (Amanda) Hoffman, Rachele Cafazo, and Vincent Cafazo. She was a loved relative to many nieces, nephews, and extended family members of the younger generation, who all share memories of Kathy that make them smile and laugh. Kathy was predeceased by her parents as well as her sister Mary, brothers Eddie and Billy, and is survived by her brother John.

Kathy’s life will be celebrated with Mass of Catholic tradition, and she will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Cincinnati, OH. She will be missed.