Kathryne Martha Layne

Kathryne, a cherished soul who graced this world with her vibrant spirit on February 19, 1929, in the serene town of Missoula, Montana, passed away peacefully in her sleep on August 12, 2026, following a short illness. Born to Charles M. MaCauley (son of Major Michael M. McCauley for whom McCauley Butte is named) and Emma Elizabeth Burks, Kathryne's life was a testament to love, resilience, and dedication. She grew up at the foot of her family's homestead, McCauley Ranch and McCauley Butte by Target Range, the Bitterroot River and Fort Missoula. She grew up a country girl during the Depression and on the Dairy Ranch and boy did she love growing gardens that produced plenty of vegetables.

In 1945, Kathryne embarked on the journey of marriage with Almer Lee Layne, Sr., in Missoula, a union that would set the foundation for a large, loving family. Together, they welcomed eight children: Charles M., Almer Lee (Jeanette), Jr., Richard Gene (Carleen), Constance May, Gregory Wayne, Thomas Elliot, Christine Rose, and Robin Kevin (Isabel). Her family became the cornerstone of her life, and she cherished her role as a devoted mother and grandmother to her thirteen grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren, including Teresa, Melanie, Jennifer, Linda, Ladan, Kathleen, Christian, Denef, Marta, Kimberly, Amarilis, Alexander, and Madison.

Kathryne's life was enriched by her education and career pursuits. Although she left Missoula County High School early to marry, she never abandoned her thirst for knowledge, eventually earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Education in 1982. Her professional journey saw her in various roles: a resolute homemaker, a general laborer, a clerical worker, and a teacher, where she touched many lives with her wisdom and kindness.

She lived at times in her life in Arkansas, Idaho, California, and South Dakota, but she returned to her beloved home state and city for good in 1989 where she lived the rest of her life.

Her membership, including her time with the Eagles Lodge, reflected her love for community and connection. Kathryne was known for her culinary skills, her insatiable love for reading, and her joy in sharing stories and laughter with friends. Her quick 'Irish' temper was tempered by her down-to-earth nature and her ability to connect with others on a deep and personal level. Her humor and anecdotes left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Kathryne was blessed with love more than once, marrying William F. Opat in 1968 and later, Jim Walter in 1982. Each chapter of her life was marked by growth, love, and new beginnings. Her legacy is one of strength, warmth, and an unwavering commitment to family.

She was predeceased by all eight of her siblings (Jamec., Anna Elizabeth, Joseph 'Joe' M., Virginia M, Marian M., Helen E, Richard M., Lucy M, Charlotte P., Jessie J., Freda L., her parents, and her beloved daughter, Christine Rose Layne, who passed away in March 2026. Despite these profound losses, Kathryne's spirit remained unbroken, carried forward by the love and support of her surviving family.

The family has expressed a preference for donations to be made to a charity of the donor's choice, in honor of Kathryne's generous spirit and her lifelong dedication to helping others.

Kathryne lived a life filled with meaningful experiences, deep love, and lasting connections. She will be dearly missed and warmly remembered by all who knew her.