Kathy Elaine Scates, age 85 of Keystone Heights, passed away at her home peacefully on Wednesday, June 2, 2026. She was born on February 22, 1941, in Palatka to Harold and Winona (Rountree) Ridaught, Sr.

Kathy graduated from Melrose High and was adored and loved by many; she touched and influenced everyone that she came across. In her spare time you could find Kathy in her yard gardening and taking care of her plants. After a rewarding stint as a homemaker, she dedicated over 30 years as a Sergeant with the Florida Department of Corrections, making a significant impact on everyone around her.

Kathy married her beloved Charlie "Pink" Foster Jr., and together they raised three wonderful children. After Pink's passing, Kathy found love again with Norbert F. Scates, who she married until his death.

In addition to her parents and husbands, Kathy was also preceded in death by her by her sisters JoAnn and Lee.

Left behind to cherish her memory are her three children, Winona Foster Zeh (Jimmy), Charlie P. Foster (Joy), and Margaret "Liz" Foster Addison. She was lovingly called "Nanny" by her grandchildren Tara Neal (Ryan), Kelly Smith (Jason), and Nick Foster, along with great grandchildren Brianna, Isabelle, Layla, and Hunter. Kathy was also blessed with one brother, Les, three sisters, Vi, June, and Sandy, and an abundance of cousins, nieces, nephews, and additional family members and friends that will miss her dearly.

The family receive friends on Monday, Jue 8, 2026, in the Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home Chapel beginning at 1:00 pm. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 pm with Mr. William Zeh officiating

Interment will follow at Ochwilla Cemetery in Hawthorne. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Haven Hospice, 6400 St. Johns Avenue, Palatka, FL 32177.

Arrangements are under the care of JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME, 340 E. Walker Dr., Keystone Heights, FL 32656. (352) 473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com.