The world lost one of its most confident decision-makers on May 14, 2025, when Kathy Lynn Wilson—a natural-born leader, brilliant communicator, fierce competitor, and CEO of every family gathering—passed away peacefully, having finally relinquished control (but not without giving a few final instructions).

From the moment she could speak, Kathy had a plan—and usually a backup plan. Shemanaged every detail in life with precision, from travel to softball game day logistics, ensuring everything ran like clockwork. No one was ever exempt from her infamous to-do lists, and her firm sense of “we’re doing it my way—and you’ll thank me later.”

And you know what? We usually did.

Kathy loved her family with her whole heart—and she had no shortage of ways to show it. She was a master of heartfelt letters, often several pages long, filled with memories, reflections, and just the right amount of guidance. Never one to shy away from a spirited debate, Kathy had a knack for turning conversations into lively, laughter-filled exchanges—and maybe a gentle reminder that she was right. She loved prompting her loved ones to share stories from the past. Communicating, connecting, and creating memories were her love languages, and she shared them generously.

Kathy had a competitive spirit that lit up every field, card table, and backyard she stepped into. Whether it was pitching horseshoes, playing golf, challenging her children at spades, or mastering cornhole, she brought energy, joy, and an abundance of confidence to every game. But the true constant in her life was softball. From cheering on her loved ones to coaching and managing her beloved senior team, Team Works, to championship victories, Kathy was a respected and passionate presence in the softball world. Her love for the game ran deep—not only because of the competition, but because it brought her to so many of the people she held dearest. In fact, she loved softball so much, she married a Hall of Famer.

Kathy was a devoted spouse to Jody Trimmer. She also leaves behind her children Stephanie Gómez-Wilson, and Christopher Wilson as well as her siblings Vickey Bramble, Robert Lester, and Linda Wiley, and her 7 grandchildren all of whom now face the daunting task of figuring out how to do things without their trusty life coach on call. Please be patient with us—we’re still waiting for Kathy to send us directions.

Kathy created ripples that touched countless lives. A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held at a future date, with details forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, please consider taking charge of something—anything—and doing it with confidence. Just like Kathy would have. She has asked that you send her wife and her children your favorite memories of her. If you desire to make a monetary contribution in her name, we recommend breast cancer research, the Trevor Project, or your local cat rescue.