Kathryn P. Willoughby

Willoughby, Kathryn Prowse, 81, a longtime resident of Montgomery, Alabama, passed away peacefully at Crowne Rehabilitation Center after a long struggle with illness on September 27, 2024. Kathryn was born in Pennsylvania to Robert J. “Bob” and Mildred “Milly” Prowse and grew up in New Hampshire. Her early years in Contoocook would always be recounted with warmth and her Concord memories served as the foundation for what would become a life of helping others. She graduated from Concord High and then went on to Green Mountain College. Kathryn carried the values gleaned in her upbringing throughout her countless adventures. As a devoted Air Force wife, Kathryn spent many years supporting her husband, Jim, during his 27 years in the military. Her steadfast love and unwavering dedication were the bedrock of their family. She embraced each new posted location with enthusiasm and grace, becoming a marvelous hostess and an undeniable joy to be around. She had the ability to make every gathering a memorable occasion and to make strangers friends. She also worked for nearly 10 years doing insurance physicals, and her stories from these assignments made for such great tales. Kathryn’s humor

and love of wordplay were hallmarks of her storytelling, and her laughter and wit will be much missed. Kathryn was always also very involved in her church, dedicating much of her life to service in that regard. She led by example, inspiring those around her with her selflessness and commitment to helping others. She wore many hats over the years, from Troop leader to leading the children’s choir. She faithfully participated for years on several different committees and in many different service organizations but loved the cheerful interaction with all God’s children the most. Kathryn was preceded in death by her parents, Bob and Milly, and her dear brother, John. She leaves behind her loving husband of 50 years, Col. James S. Willoughby USAF(RET), who stood by her side through every challenge. Kathryn is also survived by her two sons, Thomas (Sharon)Butterfield and John (Laura) Butterfield, and her daughter, Adriane (Paul) Duvall. She leaves behind two grandchildren. She also leaves behind a loving family in New Hampshire, including the Prowse families and the Gourleys, as well as her much loved stepsister, Faith Goodwin.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 4, at 9:30 AM at Messiah Lutheran Church in Montgomery, in the Willoughby Fellowship Hall. This will be followed by a memorial service conducted at 10:30 AM. Interment will be held afterwards at Alabama Heritage Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Kathryn’s honor to the Humane Society. Kathryn's life was filled with love, laughter, and the joy of family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, and her legacy of kindness and compassion will live on in the hearts of those she touched.