Kathleen Veronica Libonati

Kathleen Veronica Libonati, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2025. Born on April 20, 1946, in St. Louis, Missouri, Kathy grew up in the heart of an Italian neighborhood affectionately known as The Hill. Those early years spent alongside her brother and sister in a tight-knit community filled with family, food, and faith shaped the foundation of who she was - loyal, loving, inclusive and full of life.

Kathy built an extraordinary career in the airline industry, blazing trails at a time when few women were doing so. Her professional journey spanned Frontier Airlines, MGM Air, TWA, and American Airlines. Each chapter is marked by her trademark determination, elegance and capability. She lived by the motto, “There is nothing you can’t do or get done,” and she embodied that belief every day.

It was in Denver, on a blind date, that Kathy met the love of her life, Joe. From that moment on, it was clear they were meant to be. Their love was rooted deeply in faith, family, laughter, and shared Italian heritage, a bond that only grew stronger through the years.

Motherhood was Kathy’s greatest joy and purpose. She poured her heart and soul into raising her two daughters, guiding them with compassion, strength, and a quick wit that kept everyone on their toes. Kathy’s nurturing spirit extended well beyond her own family. She became a second mother to countless others: her daughters’ friends, neighbors, and anyone lucky enough to find a seat at her kitchen table. Whether it was a late night heart-to-heart, a comforting meal, or a bit of unsolicited but always spot-on advice, Kathy had a gift for making everyone feel loved, supported and at home.

Known for her impeccable taste and ability to plan the perfect gathering, Kathy had a way of bringing people together in celebration. She loved a strong theme party, never missing a chance to turn an ordinary occasion into an unforgettable event, complete with laughter and great food. She was a talented cook who believed food was love made visible, and her kitchen was often the heart of any gathering. Her cheesecake was famous, her meatballs unmatched, and both were served with a side of laughter and love. Holidays at the Libonati home were legendary, not just for the food, but for the way Kathy made sure everyone had a place to belong. No one was ever left out. She invited friends, neighbors, and even friends of friends, ensuring no one ever spent a holiday alone.

A world traveler at heart, Kathy turned her career into a passport to adventure. She delighted in exploring new destinations, immersing herself in cultures, and discovering beauty in every corner of the globe. She made it her mission to share that wonder with her family, ensuring they too experienced the richness of the world beyond their doorstep.

In retirement, Kathy cherished her favorite title of all, “Nana.” Her five adoring grandchildren were the light of her life. She showered them with unconditional love, laughter, and wisdom, cheering them on at every milestone and teaching them, just as she had her daughters, that attitude truly is everything.

She is now reunited with her beloved Joe, no doubt back on the dance floor, where they were known to get every party started.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Catherine Bazdarich, and her husband, Joe Libonati. She is survived by her daughters, Annie Schacht (Cameron) and Katie Anderson (Jason); her cherished grandchildren, Julia, Josie, Carl Joseph “CJ,” Amelia, and Wynn; her brother, Sam Bazdarich (Janet); her sister, Ann Marie Sherring (Chris); and many extended family members and friends who loved her dearly.

A Mass of Christian Burial honoring Kathy’s life will take place at St. Andrew Catholic Church, 3312 Dryden Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76109 on Saturday, November 8, at 12 p.m., followed by a reception at Ridglea Country Club, 3700 Bernie Anderson Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76116.

A livestream of the service may be viewed at the following link: https://standrewcc.org/livestream-mass

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Alzheimer’s Association.