Kathleen “Kate” Lee Self was born in Landisbusac, France on December 16th, 1953. She passed away in Little Rock on April 20, 2024. Kate is survived by her brother, Roderick “Rod” Self, of Hot Springs, nieces Carley and Amanda, and nephew Jay. Kate was preceded in death by her parents JD and Vera Self and her brother Randolph “Randy” Self.
Kathleen graduated from Watson Chapel High School in 1971 and earned her Bachelor’s Degree in History from the University of Central Arkansas. She continued at UCA to complete her Master’s Degree in Library Science.
Kate’s career centered around education, service, and literature. She had a passion for each of these, as well as a love for the students she worked with. Kate began her teaching career at Brinkley High School in 1983. In 1995, Kate relocated to Benton, Arkansas to be closer to family and served the Benton Public Schools for another 15 years. During her tenure she sponsored Gifted and Talented programs and took many winning teams to annual Quiz Bowl competitions.
In 2010 she retired from teaching, but stayed close to books and education. She worked part time at the Bob Herzfield Memorial Library in Benton where she became a cherished member of the organization. She also joined what would become her second family at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School in Benton. She served as administrative assistant and librarian at the school up until her recent passing.
Kate was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Benton, where she not only attended worship services, but was active in Bible Study, Sunday School, and volunteered in the church library.
Those who knew Kate remember her bottomless heart for any animal in need, and she cherished the pets that found their way to her. Whether it was caring for a kitty colony behind her school or welcoming one more homeless pet into her home, she could be counted on to love and nurture the furry friends in her life.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Kathleen Self’s name to your local Humane Society or animal rescue organization of your choice.
A family-hosted memorial will be held Monday, May 6th at 11AM at the First Baptist Church of Benton, 211 South Market Street. A visitation will precede the service at 10AM.
Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com
2 Comments
Kate and I enjoyed Sunday lunches, movies and library work together
Kate had the best loving and caring heart. I’m so thankful that I could count her as a friend.
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