Kathleen A. (Blanchard) Heath, age 80, of Rinard, Illinois, passed away Friday, August 22, 2025, at her home.

      She was born March 30, 1945, in Aurora, the daughter of William Glenn and Helen L. (Wood) Hutter.  Kathy was united in marriage to Charles Gary Blanchard on June 10, 1962, in Hinckley, and they shared 27 wedding anniversaries until his passing on August 17, 1989.  She married Robert A. Heath in Olney in May of 1998, and they shared 21 years together until his passing on June 19, 2019.

      Kathy was a hardworking and creative woman who poured her energy into many business ventures across Illinois, most recently Neptune’s Gaming Parlor in Flora. She also worked at several local companies, including North American Lighting, Hella, and Huck’s, before retiring from the housekeeping department at Richland Memorial Hospital.   She was an accomplished seamstress, making many costumes for her children and grandchildren.  She enjoyed cheering for NASCAR and watching old westerns or “Murder She Wrote.”  She was an avid reader who especially enjoyed mystery novels, with a particular fondness for Agatha Christie.  More than anything, Kathy’s heart was with her family, and she was their strongest supporter and greatest source of pride.

      Kathy is survived by her children: Joe (Brena) Blanchard of Flora, Sarah (Vic) Hager of Xenia, Daniel Blanchard of Vincennes, Indiana, and Aaron Blanchard of Cisne; 10 grandchildren: Gary (Tisha) Blanchard, Courtney (Cliff) Linders, Justin (Haley) Blanchard, Alan Hager, Mason Hager, Sam Hager, Brian Blanchard, Kevin Blanchard, Josh Blanchard, and Grayson Blanchard; 2 great-grandchildren: Oakley and Raylan Blanchard; brother: Harvey Laverne Hutter Sr.; and her beloved dog: Lucy.

      She is preceded in passing by her parents; husbands; sisters: Marilyn Jeanne (Ron) Leifheit and Wilma Bury; and brother: Bill (Donna) Hutter.

      A graveside ceremony will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Sandwich, Illinois.  Those who wish to attend are asked to please arrive directly at the cemetery.  A visitation will be held from 5 until 8 p.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Memorial donations are suggested to either St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Clay County Cancer Crusaders, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a memory or condolence visit: www.frankandbright.com