Mary "Kathy" McCann

Mary "Kathy" McCann, a beacon of warmth and compassion, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2026, after a prolonged struggle with multiple health challenges. Born on May 2, 1955, in Des Moines, Iowa, Kathy was the beloved daughter of Robert and Rita McCann. She was predeceased by her parents, her brother Mike, and her nephew, Peter McCann. Kathy is survived by her cherished siblings, Bob McCann, Peggy Mikelonis, Patrick McCann, and Jackie Cleland, along with her nephews Justin McCann and Jason Mikelonis, and nieces Siobhan McCann, Jenna Mikelonis, and Emily Cleland. Kathy spent her early years in the north-side neighborhood of Highland Park, Des Moines, where she developed her innate caregiving instincts. She moved to Florida in 1981, where she built a rich and fulfilling life in Tampa. Her passion for nursing led her to pursue an LPN degree from Erwin Technical College, which she completed in 1985. Kathy was deeply honored for her dedicated service at the Tampa Veterans Hospital, where she tended to veterans from multiple wars with unwavering commitment and compassion. In 2003, Kathy ventured to Chickamauga, Georgia, where she cultivated a vibrant community of friends and became an integral member of the "Red Hat Ladies." Her life was a testament to the power of kindness, as she generously offered her time and care to neighbors in need, providing a warm meal, a helping hand, or simply a comforting presence. Despite facing numerous health challenges, Kathy's spirit never waned. Her capacity for love and friendship remained undiminished, and she continued to enrich the lives of all who knew her. In 2003, she returned to Florida, a place she often called her "Happy Place," where the white sand beaches she adored offered her solace and joy. Kathy's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at St. Andrew of Tampa Skilled Nursing Facility for their devoted support over the years. A private funeral ceremony will be held to honor her life, with a celebration of life planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, in memory of Kathy's enduring legacy of care and compassion. Kathy's life was a beautiful tapestry of love, service, and resilience. She leaves behind a legacy that will forever inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.