Kathleen Louise Lydon

)Kathleen Louise Lydon, 61, of Waverly Hall, GA, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2026, surrounded by the family she loved so dearly.

A woman of profound faith and boundless optimism, Kathleen’s life was defined by a selfless heart that consistently put others above herself. She experienced so much throughout her life, navigating her journey with a genuine heart and an unwavering desire to lift people up. Kathleen proudly served her country in the United States Air Force, and following her service, she channeled her discipline into her education, earning her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. While her professional life was marked by discipline and duty, her personal life was filled with the gentle joys of nature and love. She found peace in her garden and was never happier than when she was near the water—whether boating on the lake or feeling the sand at the beach.

While Kathleen touched many lives, her heart truly belonged to her grandchildren: Kyleigh, Haleigh, Jose “Taco,” and Daxton. To them, she was a source of pure "safeness," endless cuddles, and a bit of everyday magic. Her grandbabies will forever cherish the special world she built for them. From hosting elegant tea parties to the quiet mornings spent watching the birds and tending to her flowers and plants, she taught them to appreciate beauty. She lived by the wonderful philosophy of "dessert first," especially when ice cream was involved, and she ensured every grandbaby was tucked in tight, personally buying all their favorite pajamas. With a needle, thread, and a lot of love, Kathleen was always mending. Whether she was fixing a favorite piece of clothing or performing "surgery" on a well-loved stuffed animal, her hands were always working to make things whole again for her grandbabies.

Even when apart, she reached out with thoughtful "good morning" GIFs featuring cute animals, making sure all her loved ones felt her love and happiness the moment they woke up. Kathleen lived for the energy of a live game—whether it was hockey, baseball, or any event where her family was involved.

A visitation will be held at Vance Brooks Funeral Home, 4048 Macon Road, Columbus, GA 31907, on Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 1300 - 1500. Interment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. We are asking everyone that attends the visitation to wear floral/colors rather than black, but if you wish to wear black, we request to add a pop of color for Kathleen.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Church of the Holy Family, where Kathleen found great comfort. The link for donating is holyfamilycolumbus.com/giving/

Kathleen is preceded in death by her father, Carl Dean Lydon, and her beloved husband, James Kennedy Johnston. Her legacy of kindness is carried on by her mother, Beatriz Mendieta Vaughn; and her devoted family: Mathew and Karen Bruce, and Carl Donavan Bruce. She is also survived by her sisters, Melanie Sine (Paul), and Margie Synoground (Paul); her four cherished grandchildren; and a wide circle of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.