Kathleen Ann Ambrose San Diego, Calif., – formerly of Belle Vernon
Kathy was born in Glen Cove, N.Y., on May 29, 1953, and passed away on March 27, 2021, in San Diego, Calif., near her son Raymond. Kathy is the daughter of Marilyn “Mally” Smith and Joseph Hennerty. She is the eldest of four children, Patty, Tom, and Joe. She moved with her family to Belle Vernon at age 12 and was a graduate of the Belle Vernon Area High School, Class of 1972. Following high school, Kathy went on to study psychology at Mercyhurst College in Erie. She soon after met her future husband, Ray Ambrose, and the two were married on Sept. 8, 1979. Kathy and Ray lived in Belle Vernon and had two sons, Raymond of San Diego, Calif., and Samuel of White Plains, N.Y. Kathy and her boys were very deeply bonded and she often regarded her greatest accomplishment as being their mother. Kathy returned to school and began a new career as a Registered Nurse at Mon Valley Hospital in 1989. She is widely regarded as an exceptional professional, collecting accolades from patients and families who were touched by her compassionate care. Kathy was a private person who was quick to help anyone in need. She was an influential leader, skilled at listening and offering sound advice. She loved music, exercise and travel. Kathy was forced to retire early due to a chronic nerve condition. In time, she also suffered head trauma, which began to manifest as cognitive impairment. While Kathy and Ray Sr. separated for many years, as time went on, they reunited and became very close once again. Ray Sr. was her primary caretaker until the condition required more than what could be offered at home. Kathy spent her last few years in San Diego, Calif., near her son Raymond, where she received specialized care. She was adored by many within the Memory Care Community and, as a nurse at heart, spent a great deal of her time helping other residents. She enjoyed an abundance of sun, days on the beach, picnics and many smiles. Kathy leaves many with a void that will never be filled. Like her sons do her, Kathy idolized her mother, Marilyn, and we believe they, along with others passing before, are united again today. Kathy has now regained all that was stolen from her on Earth and is surely smiling as the memories come flooding back. Kathy’s wishes were for cremation and she will remain in California until the family can be together to celebrate her life in Pennsylvania. If you wish to attend the memorial service once scheduled, please reach out by email: Ambrose678@me.com.
