Kathryn Thewes

April 28, 1946 - September 5, 2026

Kathryn E. Thewes, 80, passed away peacefully at her home in Bordentown Township, New Jersey, on Saturday, September 5, 2026, surrounded by the love of her devoted husband and three children.

Kathy was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, nurse, and friend whose life was defined by caring for others. Her compassion, kindness, faith, and ability to make people feel comforted and cared for touched countless lives throughout her life.

Her calling to care for others began early. At just 16 years old, Kathy was already riding with the ambulance squad in Florham Park, New Jersey, responding to emergencies and learning firsthand what it meant to show up for people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. It was a calling she would continue to honor throughout the rest of her life.

Born in Jersey City and raised in East Orange, Kathy grew up in a household where faith and service were woven into daily life. She attended grade school at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church, the same church she would eventually marry in, and Bayley-Ellard High School in Madison. After high school, she traveled to Cambridge, Massachusetts to earn her nursing degree from the Holy Ghost Hospital School of Nursing—a choice that reflected both her strong sense of purpose and the quiet independence that would define her.

Kathy devoted much of her life and career to caring for others. She spent many years working and volunteering in hospice care throughout northern New Jersey, including Gillette, before continuing her nursing career for more than two decades in the West Windsor area. She had a special gift for caring for people during life’s most difficult moments, offering not only her knowledge and skill as a nurse, but also the compassion, patience, and comforting presence that came so naturally to her.

Her faith remained at the center of everything she did. A longtime member of the United Presbyterian Church in Yardville, Kathy served as both an Elder and Deacon. She also extended her care and compassion into local hospitals, visiting patients who might otherwise have faced their most difficult days alone. For Kathy, caring for others was more than simply what she did—it was who she was, and a reflection of the faith she carried throughout her life.

Outside of her work and service to others, Kathy was a woman of many creative gifts. She loved to sew, quilt, knit, and create beautiful handmade pieces, each made with skill, patience, and love. These creations will remain treasured keepsakes for her family for years to come. Kathy also loved attending her grandchildren’s sporting events, beaming with pride as she cheered them on. She was also a fan of the New York Yankees and especially enjoyed taking in the excitement of a game at the stadium alongside her husband and dear friends.

Kathy and her beloved husband, Frank, shared a love of travel and adventure. Together, they frequently traveled to Maui, Hawaii, and also journeyed abroad, visiting the village of her paternal roots in Sicily and experiencing the culture of her maternal heritage in Ireland. Kathy deeply loved the sand, sunshine, and sound of the ocean waves and was happiest near the water. Cape May and Point Pleasant held significant, precious places in her heart. Kathy and Frank also shared many cherished vacations in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, with her beloved sister and brother-in-law, creating treasured memories together. Their travels also took them to Arizona, where they spent precious time with Frank’s sister, Helen, and her partner, Barry.

Above all else, Kathy cherished her family. Her grandchildren were truly the light of her life, and there was nothing she treasured more than spending time with them. She adored each of them, and they adored her right back. The love they shared created a special bond and countless memories that they will carry with them always.

Daughter of the late Frank C. and Elizabeth Guilfoyle Bilello, and sister of the late Frank Bilello, Kathy is survived by her beloved husband of 59 years, Frank E. Thewes; her three children, Amelia May; Jennifer Heffentrager and her husband, Scott; and Frank Thewes and his wife, Kelly; her sister, Helen, and her husband, Dr. John Karlen; and her seven beloved grandchildren, Dante Massimino, Dagan Massimino, Darien Massimino, Camryn Heffentrager, Kylie Heffentrager, Sadie Thewes, and Frankie Thewes.

She is also survived by many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly, as well as other relatives and friends whose lives were made brighter simply by knowing her.

Kathy will be remembered for her infectious laugh, captivating smile, positive spirit, and the warmth and love she so freely gave to others. She had a beautiful way of making people feel cared for and loved. She was a light in this world, and her kindness, compassion, and love will continue to shine through the lives of everyone she touched.

Funeral services will be held privately at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to the United Presbyterian Church in Yardville, NJ.

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