Kathryn C. Burkhardt, 84, of Beaumont, passed away in her sleep on Tuesday, March 29, 2011, at Harbor Hospice in Beaumont with her husband of sixty-three years, William F. Burkhardt, by her side.

A native of Gloucester, New Jersey, she was born October 4, 1926, to Frances L. Atkinson Callaghan and Michael J. Callaghan. A lifelong resident of the Beaumont area, Kathryn was a devout Catholic and parishioner of St. Jude Catholic Church.  

As a teenager, she received a commendation for her civilian work with Ordinance during World War II. She was one of the first graduates of Lamar University’s paralegal class, and a charter member of the State Bar of Texas Legal Assistants Division.  She was a longtime certified legal assistant with the Gilbert Adams law firm where she was beloved and respected by those with whom she dealt.

Kathryn was a generous, hardworking, honest, sincere woman who spoke her mind; she always placed her family’s needs before her own. 

A member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, she was honored that she was a descendant of a soldier who served with General George Washington at Valley Forge. Her patriotism shown forth in the pride she took in the American flag.

Kathryn enjoyed telling stories and would write guest editorials for the Beaumont Enterprise recalling life during the Great Depression.

Survivors include her husband, William F. Burkhardt of Beaumont; sons, William Burkhardt of Austin, James R. Burkhardt of Beaumont and Stephen J. Burkhardt of Austin; grandchildren, Hillary Burkhardt and Coridon Burkhardt both of Beaumont; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 a.m. Friday, April 1, 2011, at St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church, 6825 Gladys, Beaumont, with a committal to follow at Broussard’s Crematorium under the direction of Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. A gathering of her family and friends was held from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with a Rosary recited at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, March 31, 2011, at Broussard’s.

Loving wife, beloved mother, doting grandmother, you loved us all and we love you - thanks for all you sacrificed for us and for all that you worked so hard to give us.