BELMONT – Kathy Marie Tarar, 45, passed away on Sunday (August 18, 2024) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester following a brief illness.
Kathy was born on May 25, 1979 in Cuba to Russell Frank and Mary Ellen (Austin) Spangler. After the passing of her father, she was raised by her mother. Her current step-father, Raymond Burdick, treated her as his own daughter for the last 13 years. She was a 1997 inaugural graduate of Genesee Valley Central School after completing grades K-11 at Belmont Central School. She later earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Services through the University of Phoenix.
Kathy was a loving and dedicated homemaker, tending to the needs of her family. At other periods in her life she was an Employment Specialist for Allegany County ARC in Wellsville. She previously worked in technician support for Adelphia Communications Corporation in Coudersport, Pa. and as a clerk for Short’s Deli in Wellsville.
In addition to her mother and step-father, Mary Ellen and Ray Burdick, Kathy is survived by two children, Madison Tarar and Jordan Spangler, both of Belmont. Also, she is survived by three fur babies: two dogs, Fallon and Penelope and one cat, Shorty. She appreciated the comfort they gave her. Additionally Kathy is survived by three brothers, Nick (Alyssa) Spangler of Goldsboro, N.C., Shannon Latham of N.C. and Elijah Burdick of Andover; three sisters, Corina Greer of Rockingham, N.C., Shannon Burdick of Andover, and Sarah Burdick of Hamlet, N.C.; her Uncle David and Aunt Suzie Austin of Friendship, Uncle Joe and Aunt Barb Austin of Cuba, Uncle Michael and Aunt Sue Austin of Rochester, Aunt Christine and Uncle Daniel Lyon of Burleson, Texas, Aunt Billie Jo and Uncle Todd Andrews of Salamanca and Aunt Ann and Uncle Donnie Baker of Alamogordo, N.M., and Uncle Scott Spangler; her significant other, Kelsey French; special friend, Becky Chambers and bonus daughter, Megan Chambers; nephews Everett Grey, Emerson Spangler; nieces, Reagan Greer, Riley Parker, Sophie Garcia, Alura Spangler, Emmalynn Spangler; and a plethora of cousins.
In addition to her father, she was predeceased by her sister Nicole Leo; her grandparents, Charles and Eleanor Austin, and Albert and Phyllis Spangler; an aunt, Brenda J. Austin; and an uncle, Albe Spangler.
In the words of her brother, “Kathy was the most loving, caring, giving, fun, silly and compassionate sister, mother, daughter, friend and girlfriend.” Her mother and children describe her as selfless–she put the needs of others before herself–thoughtful, most forgiving, strong and she loved her family beyond measure. Kathy had a great sense of humor and enjoyed being the life of the party. She was a personal hero to her brother and two children.
In spite of her many obstacles in life, Kathy was truly a warrior. Her daughter, Maddy Patty’s, favorite memory with Mom was just spending time talking with her for hours on end. Her son, Jordan’s, favorite memory was watching movies with her at home. In the words of four-year old Emerson Spangler, “Kathy is dead. I miss her.”
Kathy lived and loved like no one else. You could almost say, instead of “What would Jesus do?”, “What would Kathy do?” We, her family and friends, are so very grateful for the time we got to spend with Kathy. She would want to thank everyone who made her life so full. Kathy, even though in pain most of the time, took advantage of all the time she had with us, either helping, consoling, or just enjoying life with us. She lived her life cherishing each and every precious moment. That is the kind of life she would wish for all of us.
There will be no prior visitation. In memory of Kathy, a Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday (August 22) at 1:00 p.m. at her mom’s place in Belmont. Bring a chair, a dish to pass and your favorite stories to share.
In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to Kathy’s GoFundMe page at: https://gofund.me/4f6ec7d6.
Arrangements are under the direction of Baker-Swan Funeral Home, Wellsville/Scio. Online condolences may be offered at www.baker-swan.com. © 2024 Baker-Swan Funeral Home.
Kathy and I met when we were 1st or second grade. We made friends quickly. She was absolutely sunshine. I switched schools and we were lucky enough to be reunited and were friends throughout school. Kathy was generous of spirt, kind to all and one of the warmest people I’ve know.
Sending you all my deepest sympathy. I can’t imagine how much you must miss her.
I lost touch with Kathy after high school, but we cheered together. I remember her huge smile and giggle. She always seemed like such a happy soul. My heart goes out to her entire family, I was so shocked to see this. I’m sure she will truly be missed.
I knew Kathy in high school and remember her beautiful singing voice. The world will be a little less bright without her warm smile and kind soul. My deepest condolences to her children and family.