Kathy Whipple, 70, of Salem, passed away at SSM Good Samaritan Hospital on February 23rd, 2025, with her family by her side. She was born on February 21st, 1955, in Salem, to her mother Barbara (Ritter) Watkins.
She is survived by her children: Carl Whipple and his partner Amber Dumas, Ernie Whipple, Tammy Engler, and Melissa (Shawn) Devor; 15 grandchildren: Whitney Ritter, Riley Ritter, Joseph Engler, Adam Engler, Matthew Engler, Noah Engler, Christopher Altom, Robert Altom, Alani Devor, Connor Devor, Carrissa Whipple, James Whipple, Natalie Whipple, Weston Whipple, and Raegan Nibert; as well as many great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her son-in-law: Billy Engler; grandson: Jessie Altom; granddaughter: Jessica Altom; stepfather: Myron “Rip” Watkins; and brother: Terry Wiehle.
Kathy loved playing bingo, going site seeing, going to rummage sales, and sitting outside just to enjoy the weather. She was a huge Elvis fan that enjoyed going with her family to her favorite places to eat, Golden Corral and Chinese restaurants. She had a caring heart that led her to a career as a CNA. The biggest love of her life was attending family gatherings and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will be missed by all that knew her.
Cremation rites will be afforded per family wishes. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the family and will be accepted at Sutherland-Rankin Funeral Home, 310 North Broadway/ P.O. Box 97 Salem, Illinois 62881, (618)548-1234, who is honored to be of service to Kathy’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook Page.
