Kathy R. Gahm, 59, of Lena, IL passed away peacefully with family by her side on Sunday, February 16, 2025. She was born to Merlin and Juanita (Sager) Watson on March 7, 1965, in Freeport, IL. Kathy married the love of her life, Greg Gahm, on July 19, 1986, and together they raised four children.

In childhood, Kathy's favorite pastime was running around the family farm with her siblings in Forreston, IL. While attending Forreston High School, she developed a love for basketball and played on the first girls basketball team that advanced to the state tournament. Following high school, Kathy graduated from Northern Illinois University where she earned her bachelor's degree.

Early in marriage, Kathy enjoyed traveling the world with Greg, especially around Europe. When they settled in Lena, Kathy cherished her role as a devoted mother. Whether watching her kids play in the backyard or cheering them on at various sporting events, Kathy always supported and was present for her family. When her kids moved away from Lena, Kathy loved visiting and creating memories with them and her beloved grandchildren.

Above all, Kathy's unwavering faith in the Lord was the foundation of her life. In her final days, Kathy expressed to her children and grandchildren her dream: "That they have a true relationship with God, and that no matter what they go through, go to Him in prayer."

Kathy is survived by her husband Greg of Lena, IL, four children - Dylan (Angelica) Gahm of Colorado Springs, CO, Heidi (Ryan) Hoepner of Indianapolis, IN, Heather (Trevor) Sexton of Knoxville, TN, and Victoria Gahm of Colorado Springs, CO; four grandchildren - Josiah, Gracelynn, and Gabriel Gahm and Ashton Hoepner; mother - Juanita Watson of Freeport, IL; siblings - Doug (Monica) Watson, Wendy (Chris) Klaas, Mike (Sherry) Watson, sister-in-law Dawn, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her father, Merlin Watson, and brother, Jerry Watson.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Cremation rites have been accorded.