Kathleen Oates Neu

Kathleen Neu was a loving person whose kind heart and generous spirit touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Kathy faced one of life’s greatest challenges when she was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2025. She fought a courageous battle, demonstrating the strength and determination that had always been a part of who she was. Throughout her journey, she was surrounded by the love and care of family and friends. Although the battle was difficult, Kathy continued to be the strong, caring person her loved ones knew and cherished.

Kathy was preceded in death by her husband, Toney, in 2023; her parents, Joseph and Eileen Oates, in 2024; her niece, Amy Paul, in 1993; her stepson, Matthew Harding in 2003, and beloved family member Kathleen Milewski, in 2006.

She leaves behind a family who will forever carry her memory in their hearts: her sister, Callista Yacullo of Teachey, NC; her brother, Joseph Oates and wife Sheila of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida; her brother, Mark Oates and wife Karin of Fuquay-Varina, NC; her sister, Rosemarie Mobley and husband Glenn of Wallace, NC, and her Uncle Richard Collins and his wife Eileen of Columbia, Ct., stepson, James Neu; stepdaughter, Lisa Salazar and family; and stepdaughter, Tiffany Perez and family, a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. Also, special family members Amanda Gagen and family, TJ Milewski Jr., and Brian Prendergast and family.

Kathy’s passing leaves a deep emptiness for those who loved her, but her memory will remain in the countless acts of kindness she gave so freely. She will be remembered for her generous heart, her love of family, and the many lives she made a little brighter simply by being there.

Though she is no longer with us, the love she gave will continue through the family and friends she cherished. Kathy will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held close in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”  Proverbs 31:25

Please join the family at 11:00 a.m. for a Memorial Service honoring Kathy on Saturday, September 26 at Wallace Pentecostal Holiness Church, 311 Cumberland St., Wallace, N.C.

The family will receive friends from 10:30 a.m. to 10:55 a.m. on Saturday at the church.

You may share your memories and send condolences to the family by selecting our Guestbook. 

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Wallace, NC.