Mary Katherine McNeil, better known as Kathy, passed away on Friday, October 1, 2021, in Virginia Beach from complications of diabetes. 

Kathy was born October 4, 1952, in Oakland, CA.   She graduated from First Colonial High School in 1970 and then went on to study fashion design at the Rhode Island School of Design, graduating with honors in 1975.  Kathy interned with Calvin Klein in New York City; however, she wanted her name to appear on the clothing she designed, so Kathy moved to San Francisco, opened a shop on Sacramento Street, and sold her own designs. 

In 1997, Kathy returned to Virginia Beach. She was an extremely intelligent and creative person, like so many others with a “Beautiful Mind.”  Kathy was the master Scrabble player, challenging her Granny whom the family considered the guru of all things Scrabble. She was also a talented artist.  In addition to her creations in fashion, Kathy gifted us with a variety of paintings, everything from landscapes to abstracts.  The family is grateful for the years we had Kathy, but her challenges proved too much for her to bear.  We give thanks that she is now at peace, both mentally and physically. 

Kathy is survived by her mother, Pat McGlinchy, and her brothers, Mike, Jeff (Cibella), Angus (Jen), and Bo.  She was predeceased by her father, Wilfred James McNeil, Jr., and her older sister, Skippy. 

A celebration of Life is planned for 11 a.m., Friday, Oct 22nd at Star of the Sea Catholic Church, 1404 Pacific Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Star of the Sea Social Outreach.