Kathleen

Walsh

Kathleen Ross Walsh — known to everyone who loved her as Kaki — passed away peacefully in her home on October 20, 2026, at the age of 93. A longtime resident of West Chester, Pennsylvania, she lived a full, joyful, and wonderfully busy life, leaving behind a family and community that was undeniably brighter for having her in it.

A graduate of Friends’ Central School, she later went on to attend Harcum Junior College and the Westhampton College of the University of Richmond.

Kaki's life was defined by adventure and devotion. In the 1950s, she was a stewardess for American Airlines during the early years of commercial aviation, embarking on a career that few women had the opportunity to pursue at the time. In 1967, she married the love of her life, Larry Walsh, and together they built a beautiful life filled with travel, deep friendships, and a home that was always open to others. Along the way, she spent 20 years as a trusted bookkeeper for the A. Alfred Delduco law firm, followed by more than a decade at Waterloo Gardens in Devon — a place that perfectly suited her warmth and love of people.

Kaki had a gift for bringing people together. She was the heart of every gathering — whether it was one of her beloved Kentucky Derby parties, a holiday celebration, a Sunday afternoon cheering on the Eagles, or an evening playing cards with friends. She had a passion for classic rock (Pink Floyd was her favorite), an adventurous spirit that led her to countless destinations, and a deep love for spending time down the shore with her family. She approached everything with marvel and enthusiasm, and the people around her couldn't help but feel the same.

She was also a woman of deep generosity. She opened her home as a host family for The Fresh Air Fund, gave her time to the New Life Thrift Shop at Church of the Good Samaritan, Philadelphia Kiwi Club and the Paoli Hospital Auxiliary, and was a beloved presence in the Hershey's Mill community — volunteering at the yearly book sale, dining at the club, and showing up faithfully for bridge, mahjong, and trivia night.

Above all, Kaki was kind, compassionate, gracious, and genuinely funny. She loved her family fiercely and her friends just as hard.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lawrence Walsh, and her brother, Thomas Ross. She is survived by her daughter Cynthia Crothers (Michael) Hyatt; her son Lawrence (Melissa) Walsh Jr.; her son Thomas Walsh; her grandchildren (who referred to her as Dammy) Ross (Elizabeth) and Terrence (Alexa) Hyatt; Katie Walsh; Shane and Savanna Walsh; and her great-granddaughter Liliana Hyatt

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. David's Episcopal Church, 763 S. Valley Forge Road, Wayne, PA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to an animal charity of your choice.

Kaki's legacy isn't measured in years, but in the countless lives she brightened with her kindness, her laughter, and her unwavering love. She will be missed more than words can say.