Kathryn Hale Williams, age 97, was born October 9, 1928, in Fort Stanton, New Mexico and passed away peacefully on June 24, 2026, in Ruidoso, New Mexico. Kathryn is survived by her two sons, Neale Henry Williams (Karen), and Borde Hale Williams (Lisa); four grandchildren, Shirryn Williams, Rachael Williams, Haley Morin (Marc), and Ryan Wiilliams; and seven great grandchildren, Noah Williams, Madasyn Williams, Colby Williams, Canon Morin, Finley Morin, Leo Morin, and Vera Morin.

Kathryn truly loved her family with all her heart in her own special way, and her grandchildren have great memories spending time with her. She was preceded in death by her husband, W.C. Dub Williams, her father, Henry Hale; mother, Frances Fritz Hale; sister, Nancy McCarty, and niece, Paula Kiker. The Hale and Fritz families have a rich history in Lincoln County.

Kathryn grew up in Lincoln County, attending primary school at the Stetson School House and graduating from Capitan High School. She then attended and graduated from New Mexico State University with a degree in education, specifically in Home Economics. Upon graduation, she returned to Ruidoso, beginning and finishing her educational career at Ruidoso Schools. Kathryn was a very dedicated teacher for 31 years. She was your “back to basics” type of educator, specializing in sewing, cooking, and child development strategies. She was also very active in Future Homemakers of America (FHA).

There have been many stories about Mrs. Williams’s no-nonsense approach to educating her students the old school way. She had her own special way of doing things. Along with her professional career, she was a devoted wife, mother, grandma, and great grandma. Being an outstanding cook and seamstress carried over into her domestic life as well. She specialized in almost everything cooking wise. Her pie crusts were often imitated, but never duplicated, which allowed for fantastic pecan, lemon, chocolate, and coconut cream pies. She also made banana pudding from scratch.

Her sewing skills were unmatched. She once sewed Borde’s prom three-piece suit and she also made Neale’s suit coats to match Karen’s prom dresses. She was a true pioneer both professionally and domestically. In her latter years, she loved doing puzzles, bird watching, watching The Five, Jeopardy, and Wheel of Fortune, while continuously keeping Neale and Borde in line.

Kathryn was a devoted Catholic, attending church every Sunday, reading her missal, and praying her rosary. Her legacy will never be forgotten. She touched many hearts in various ways!

The family will hold a private service at a later date.