Kathleen Elizabeth Romei

Kathleen (Cathy) Elizabeth Cruse Romei, age 61, of Leeds, AL passed away and joined her Lord Saviour, Jesus Christ, on December 15, 2024. The daughter of Donald & Judith Cruse, she grew up in Birmingham, where she was captain of the Chieftainettes Dance Line at Pinson Valley High School. She also graduated from Samford University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood & Elementary Education and a Masters Degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. As a former schoolteacher, she often recalled her love for her students and making a positive impact on their lives.

She is remembered for her kindness, devotion to her faith, and love for laughter and music. She is survived by her two daughters: Laura Romei (Keith White) and Kaitlyn Romei-Przybysz (Nathan); four grandchildren: Payton Romei, Paisley White, Harper White, and Waylon White; brother, Richard Cruse (Wendy); and niece, Mary Cruse. Cathy was full of love for her family, and surviving members will honor her memory this Saturday at 2 pm. A viewing will be held at Ridout’s Trussville Chapel from 12:00-1:45 pm. A graveside service will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery starting at 2 pm. If you want to send flowers, Cathy preferred that any donations be sent to the Shelby County Humane Society.