March 5, 2021

 

Katherine “Kathie” H. (Nealey) Jones was received into the arms of Jesus on February, 22, 2021.

Kathie was born in Sacramento, California, on November 22, 1959, to John and Ann-Louise Nealey. She attended Sweetwater High School in Chula Vista, California, and graduated in 1977. In 1980 and 1983, Kathie and her husband welcomed their two children, Katie and Andrew Thomas. Later, as a single mother, Kathie worked to complete her Legal Assistant Certificate and excelled in her legal work. She was regularly requested on “rush filings” and special projects. In 1990, seeking to have her children closer to her downtown law office, Kathie enrolled them in City Tree Christian School. Kathie was involved in the school activities and would hear her children speak of Bible stories. She decided to attend church services at First Presbyterian Church. Later that year, She and the children were baptized by Rev. Paul Pulliam, and she became a Member of the Church. Kathie attended a summertime Lamb’s Players event. During intermission, Dave offered a friend’s daughter a cookie to switch seats with him so he could sit next to Kathie. This began a romance, and, in 1992, Katherine married David Jones. In 1993 and 1997, they welcomed their two daughters, Madison and Hannah. Kathie was active in church and school activities for all her children. For many summers, she created a week-long “Brat Pack” day camp for her younger daughters, their friends and her granddaughter Audrey. Kathie loved this week of activities with all her brats.

On September 5, 2005, as five members of the family were driving to dinner, their SUV was t-boned by a Calfire-tanker truck headed to a Rancho Peñasquitos fire. The family was transported from the scene in four ambulances and a medical helicopter. Kathie never fully recovered from her left-brain injury and other multiple injuries. Although she was not expected to live hours, days or even weeks, Kathie lived over 15 years beyond expectations, and for much of that time Dave was by her side. Over those many years, Dave would marvel at Kathie’s peaceful demeanor and sheer strength of will. “Choose Joy” became Dave and Kathie’s theme. Dave was by her side, holding her hand, as she breathed her final breath.

A memorial service has not yet been scheduled; Kathie’s ashes will be scattered at sea in homage to the many hours she enjoyed at the Point Loma Tide Pools with her children, friends and the Brat Pack.

In remembrance of Kathie, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to the City Tree Christian School Scholarship Fund, 320 Date St, San Diego, CA 92101. https://fpcsd.churchcenter.com/giving/to/city-tree-christian-school-scholarship