Kathy Marie Faykes

Kathy was born on August 12, 1955 in Elmhurst, Illinois. She was raised in Portsmouth, Virginia where she graduated from Churchland High School. She went on to earn a degree in Elementary Education from Virginia Tech. Kathy taught kindergarten and first grade for twenty years in the United States and in Europe. In 1990 she was named The Department of Defense Dependent School Teacher of the Year from her school.

Kathy was an avid quilter, cook, and gardener. Over the years she completed over 200 quilts which she gifted to family and friends to mark the milestones in their lives. Her passion for cooking was evident in the family meals she prepared, and most notably at the Faykes’ annual Christmas party.

Kathy loved the challenge and camaraderie of the game of golf. Winning came a distant second to the joy she had being with her friends on the golf course. Kathy's easy smile and warm nature made everyone she encountered feel special.

Finally, Kathy took great pride in her role as a military spouse. Over the years Kathy, and her husband, Frank, had the opportunity to live in and explore many new cities. Her favorite was Paris, and she never tired of seeing it again. She was involved in many activities in support of the airman, both while Frank was in active service and in retirement.

Kathy loved God, her family, friends and life. Her amazing attitude was an example that impressed all that knew her. She was everyone's best friend.

Kathy was predeceased by her brother, Paul Neumann. She is survived by her husband, Air Force Major General (Ret) Frank Faykes of Williamsburg, VA; her parents, Elizabeth and LeRoy Neumann of Chesapeake, VA; her brother Kurt Neumann of Williamsburg, VA; and her sister, Kris Rushing of Portsmouth, VA. She also had many nieces and nephews that she loved dearly. Visitation will be held at Nelsen Funeral Home on August 11 from 5-8PM. A Liturgy of Service will be held at St. Bede Catholic Church on Friday, August 12, at 12:00. A reception will follow at Two Rivers Country Club in Governor's Land.

Interment at Arlington National Cemetery will follow at a later date.

Online condolences may be offered at www.nelsencares.com.