PLATTSBURGH – Kathryn Murray Steele, 78, passed away peacefully at her home with family by her side on October 4, 2026.

Born in Plattsburgh, NY, Kathryn was the daughter of Lt Col Leonard Murray (Retired) and June (Luck) Murray. She grew up in a military family and learned her values from June and Leonard. Her childhood was quite an adventure. She attended twenty-one different schools, including some in Germany, and every move brought new places to discover and new friends to make. Kathryn graduated high school in State College, PA in 1966. She went on to graduate from Georgetown University in 1970 with a degree in French Language Studies.

Colonel Murray was Lt William Steele’s commander in the Philippines during the Vietnam War. Soon after returning to the states and Luke AFB in Arizona, Colonel Murray invited Bill to his home. Kathy answered the door and it was love at first sight. After 30 consecutive days of dating, they got engaged. Kathy and Bill were married on June 24, 1972. They shared 54 wonderful years of marriage.

Kathryn loved music and dancing, and she brought that joy to her family and friends throughout her life. She was well known for her "turkey" sandwiches and unique sense of humor. Above all, she was a devoted mother responsible for instilling the values her children and grandchildren live by. She was adored by her children and grandchildren and loved by all who knew her. Active in her husband’s career, she entertained and wowed NATO representatives and her charm was perhaps instrumental in the signing of the first NATO agreement regarding GPS. As their family moved, she also taught English as a second language in local schools.

For 17 years she lived with Parkinson's disease, and for 7 years with metastatic colon cancer. She faced both with incredible strength and grace. The family is deeply grateful for the kindness and wonderful care she received from the Fitzpatrick Cancer Center, Champlain Family Health, and Hospice of the North Country.

Kathryn is survived by her husband, Col William Steele (Retired); her son, Matthew Steele; her daughter, Julie Steele-Goodwin; her husband, Aaron Goodwin; and her grandchildren, Martin, 20; Jackson, 18; and Henry, 8. She joins her parents, Leonard Murray and June Murray.

A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. John's Church, followed by burial at St. Alexander's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Hospice of the North Country in Kathryn's memory.

Those wishing to share a photo, story, or condolence with the family are invited to visit www.rwwalkerfh.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to R.W. Walker Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 69 Court Street, Plattsburgh, NY.