Katherine Lynn Spinney

Katherine (Kathy) Spinney (Lauze) January 25, 1953 – November 19, 2024 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Katherine “Kathy” Spinney (Lauze), who no longer has to fight after battling Lewy Body Dementia. She left this world peacefully and comfortably on November 19, 2024, at the age of 71, after spending the past year and a half in memory care. Born on January 25, 1953, in Dover, NH, Kathy lived life to the fullest possible, bringing love, laughter, and comfort to everyone who knew her. She spent much of her life in Sanford, Maine, and Summerfield, Florida, before living in York Harbor, Maine. Kathy was many things to many people—she was a beloved wife, devoted mother, loyal sister, an incredible friend, and a comforting presence in her communities and workplaces. She was the cherished wife of Harold “Harry” Spinney, and their love for one another was something truly special, lasting far longer than most ever experience. Kathy was known for her unwavering commitment to being Harry’s sole caregiver for many years as he bravely battled Alzheimer’s disease. It was not an easy thing to do, but Kathy refused any help offered and wanted to do it all herself. Their love transcended everything, and it is with great sadness that we know we can never tell Harry that she’s gone. Each time will be the first time he hears it, and we’re sure, after 53 years together, he would die of a broken heart. She was also a devoted mother to her only daughter, Sherri (Spinney) Goodwin and her husband Gary, and her only and favorite son, Matt Spinney, and his partner Gin. Kathy is survived by her brothers, Mike Lauze and his wife Bonnie, who was very special to Kathy, Dennis Lauze (and his wife Brenda), and Brian Lauze; her sisters, Carol Hamilton (and her husband Michael) and Corrine Dye (and her son Tom Dye); her special sister-in-law Ada, who faithfully visited several times a week, along with her pups, Julio and Charlie; her brother-in-law Michael Spinney and his wife Patricia; her sister-in-law Pauline and her husband Roland Doiron; and many other family members and friends who were touched by her kindness. Kathy is also survived by 23 nieces and nephews, several great-nieces and great-nephews, and a handful of great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews, all of whom were deeply loved by her. She is survived by her beloved granddaughter, Kaitlyn Goodwin, her grandson, Dylan Goodwin, and his girlfriend, Jenny Huynh, along with her son, Elijah, who Kathy cherished deeply. Kathy had an extraordinary son-in-law, Gary Goodwin, who handled everything from taking her to doctor appointments—neurologist, oncologist, eye doctor, podiatrist, and dentist—to handling trips to the store, lunch outings, and visits to the ER several times. He spent weeks with both Kathy and Harry when they transitioned back to Maine, set up physical and occupational therapy, sold the house and car, moved them into four different rooms, handled taxes, made sure bills were paid, and so much more. Kathy loved him dearly and was incredibly grateful for the time they spent together. Her daughter, Sherri, is fortunate to have an amazing husband who also supported her through this journey when she couldn’t always be there herself. Kathy was predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Myra Lauze; her sister, Louise Robidas; her mother and father-in-law, Mike and Blanche Spinney; her brothers-in-law, Patrick Spinney and John Spinney; and a nephew, Mike Lauze. Kathy was predeceased by her best friend, Donna Feeney, with whom she shared countless memories and special moments over many years. Their friendship was a source of joy and comfort in Kathy’s life, and she deeply cherished their bond. Kathy was known for her positive outlook, and it brought her joy to help others. She was also the "fixer" for many, always ready with a solution, a kind word, or an action to make things better. She was known for shattering glass ceilings in the workforce, particularly at Cabletron Systems, where she made significant strides in manufacturing. She played a key role in the company both in Rochester and later when she ran the entire factory in Sanford, Maine. Her leadership, compassion, and work ethic made a lasting impact on the company and its employees. The family would like to thank the staff at Sentry Hill at York Harbor, who feel like family, for the phenomenal care, compassion, and genuine love they showed Kathy always, but especially in the last days of her life. It means everything to know and to have seen and felt the way you cared for her. We will forever be grateful beyond words. A celebration of Kathy’s life will take place with visiting hours on Wednesday, December 11, from 5:00–7:00 PM at the Carll-Heald and Black Funeral Home in Springvale, Maine. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 12, at 11:30 AM at the funeral home, followed by a ceremony at the Veterans Cemetery in Springvale at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to any Lewy Body Dementia organizations or equal rights organizations. Kathy will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the memories of all who knew her.