Kathryn "Kitty" Gross

October 21, 1940 – April 11, 2025

Kathryn Gross, 84, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2025, surrounded by those who loved her most. Friends may gather from 1-2pm, Friday, April 18 at Memorial Funeral Home 1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia, MO. Funeral Service will begin at 2pm, followed by committal service in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Born on October 21, 1940, in Dalton, Missouri, Kathryn was the beloved daughter of Donald and Virgie (Curren) Agee. She attended school in Dalton through the 10th grade and later graduated from Brunswick High School. Growing up in a close-knit community helped shape her lifelong values of strength, compassion, and service.

In 1972, Kathryn married the love of her life, Shadrick P. Gross III. Their marriage of 53 years was a beautiful testament to enduring love, deep friendship, and shared purpose. Together they built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unwavering hospitality—qualities that Kathryn carried in every aspect of her life.

For over 30 years, Kathryn worked as Assistant Manager at the University of Missouri’s Campus Dining Hall. But her impact extended far beyond the workplace—she became a maternal figure to countless students, many of whom affectionately called her “Mom.” Her kindness, wisdom, and welcoming nature made her home a sanctuary for those far from their own.

A devoted member of Friendship Baptist Church, Kathryn found joy and purpose serving in the church’s kitchen ministry. Whether preparing meals for gatherings or quietly lending a helping hand, she served with humility, love, and a smile that made everyone feel welcome.

Kathryn’s legacy of love lives on through her daughter, Tonya Houston (Howard); her stepdaughter, Jackie Washington of Springfield, MO; and her stepsons, Sherman R. Bynm (Samara) of Kansas, Leland Ballenger of Columbia, MO, and Donald Hill of Kansas City, MO. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Chadwyck Anderson-Gross (Ashley), Brittany Gross (Maurice), Ashley Kee, Christopher Kee, Ryan Kee, Ron Kee, Rlonte Kee, Anthony Washington, Ryan Washington, Rashaad Washington, Alice Jackson, Javon Gross, Jasmine Gross, Kimoryanna Gross, Tyler Gray, Elejah Hill, and JeAnn Hill. Her love continues through her many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and her wide circle of extended family and friends.

She is survived by her loving siblings: Donna Jean Hollins, Kenneth Agee of Columbia, MO, Robert Agee of North Carolina, and Pamela Tolson of Columbia, MO.

Kathryn was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Virgie Agee; her beloved husband, Shadrick P. Gross III; her daughters, Tina Hill and Teresa Hill; her stepson, Tony Washington; her grandchildren, Latoyia Washington, Rosalee Gross, and Malik Gross; and her brother, Charles Agee.

A special expression of love and gratitude is extended to her spiritual children, Reverend Caroles Shedrick Taylor and First Lady Sister Charliss Taylor of South Carolina, whose love and support were constant and deeply cherished.

Kathryn had a deep love for the outdoors and took great pride in keeping her yard immaculate. If the grass wasn’t trimmed just right, she’d finish the job with scissors—because to her, anything worth doing was worth doing well. That same attention and care touched everything she did—from tending her garden to nurturing the people around her.

To know Kathryn was to know love. She gave generously, lived faithfully, and embraced everyone like family. Her grace, strength, and boundless generosity will continue to inspire and uplift all those who were blessed to know her.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” —Matthew 25:23

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com