Kathleen May Ulrich

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Kathleen May Ulrich, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2026, in Smithfield, Utah, at the age of 81. She passed quickly and painlessly in the comfort of her home, with her daughter by her side—an answer to prayers for mercy and peace, and a reflection of the quiet grace with which she lived her life. 

Kathy, as she was known to most, was born on February 13, 1944, in Glendale, California, to Raymond and Katherine Ross. She grew up in Encino, California, as the third oldest of seven children, surrounded by a lively and loving family. She shared close bonds with her siblings—David, Pat, Loretta, Bill, Mark, and Ben. 

A woman of deep faith, Kathleen developed a lifelong love for family, service, music, and order. She was a gifted pianist and organist and devoted much of her life to serving through music in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. For more than fifty years, she faithfully served as an organist in her home wards in California, which underwent multiple name changes over the years, often simultaneously playing piano for Primary. After moving to Smithfield, Utah, in 2019, she continued this cherished calling as organist in the Smithfield 26th Ward, serving both sacrament meetings and Primary until late 2024, when health challenges made it no longer possible. Her music was a quiet testimony and a lifelong offering of service. 

In 1962, Kathleen met Richard Lawrence Ulrich through mutual friends. They were married on March 7, 1964, in the Los Angeles California Temple and shared over six decades of love, partnership, and devotion. Together they raised two children, Brian and Deborah, and built a home centered on faith, steadiness, and care for others. 

Kathleen returned to the workforce in 1972. She worked diligently at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) as an assistant supervisor in the Accounts Payable department, dedicating 33 years of service before retiring in 2005. She took pride in her work, her reliability, and her meticulous organization. 

After retiring, Kathleen and Dick embraced a long-held dream of travel, spending approximately five months each year on the road for about thirteen years, from 2005 through 2018. They treasured the experiences, friendships, and memories they gathered together across the country. 

Kathleen was known as the queen of planning—lists, notes, reminders, and later carefully scanned digital files were her specialty. She found peace in preparation and comfort in order. Above all, she was a devoted mother and grandmother. She loved her family deeply and found particular joy in watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren at family gatherings, content to sit quietly and delight in their laughter and presence. 

Married on March 7, Kathy and Richard shared a seven-year age difference and were separated by just seven months in their earthly passings. Kathleen was preceded in death by her beloved husband Richard Ulrich; her parents, Raymond and Katherine Ross; her brother David Ross; and her son-in-law, Steve Coleman. 

She is survived by her son Brian (Michele) Ulrich; her daughter Debbie Coleman; seven grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren; her siblings; and many extended family members who will miss her gentle strength, faithful service, and enduring love.