Kathleen Frances Donoghue

Kathleen Frances Donoghue, née Boyce, known affectionately as Kay, passed away on June 17, 2024, at the age of 86, in Simi Valley, California. Born on March 24, 1938, in Brooklyn, New York, Kay's life journey took her from the East Coast to the sunny environs of Southern California, where she became a legit SoCal beach-loving lass.

Kay's early education took place at P.S. 236 in Brooklyn, followed by Prospect Heights High School, where she proudly served as a May Queen attendant. At St. John’s University she earned a BA in French, graduated with honors, and received the Cerventes award in Spanish. St. John’s is where Kay met John, her future husband, and the love of her life. In the summers, she worked at camps for inner-city children where she excelled at archery and had loads of fun. After graduation, Kay began her career with the airlines, a job that fueled her love for travel. Once her children were older, she transitioned into a role as a travel agent, and later pursued a paralegal certificate at UCLA. She ultimately found her true calling in education and dedicated over 20 years at a Kumon school, where she tutored young children with patience and passion. Her students loved her, as shown by their drawings, cards, and notes that delighted her over the years.

A lover of the arts and an avid reader, Kay completed The New York Times crossword puzzle daily in pen—a testament to her sharp wit and intellect. She knew most of the answers on Jeopardy and taped it so as not to miss any episodes. Her hobbies included all kinds of word games, Sudoku, and playing bridge, a game she enjoyed throughout her adult life. Kay and John were known for their hospitality, often hosting family and friends for gatherings filled with laughter, love, and homemade delights. They shared a passion for cooking and creating memorable experiences for all who entered their home.

Kay's commitment to service was clear in her 20 years working at the voting polls, advocating for civic participation. Her charitable spirit shone through her continuous sponsorship of impoverished children through the Maryknoll Society for over 50 years.

Kay is survived by her loving children Daria Booth (Alan Rellaford), John Donoghue (Debra), Kelly Donoghue, (James Donoghue), Kevin Donoghue (Sherene), and Ryan Donoghue (Mercurio); her cherished grandchildren Bill, Hannah, Sean, Ryan, Caitlin, Quinn, and Mason; and great-grandchild Aidan. She also is survived by her sisters Isabel, Christine, Angie, and Peggy; brother in-law Al, former brother-in-law Chet, and a host of relatives and friends across the country. She was preceded in death by her parents Catherine and Alexander Boyce, her beloved husband John Francis, her brother Donald, brother-in-law Mike, son-in-law Russell, granddaughter Leanne, and nieces Paula and Gina.

A funeral mass to celebrate Kay's remarkable life will be held on Friday, July 26, at 10 a.m. at St. Maximillian Kolbe Catholic Church in Westlake Village, CA. Her legacy of love, intellect, humor, and family will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege to know her.

If you’d like to honor Kay, visit a museum and appreciate its art, read a great book, try your hand at a crossword, savor some chocolate, walk in nature, and hug your loved ones.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at https://www.neptunesociety.com/location/thousand-oaks-california for the Donoghue family.