Kathleen "Kathy" (Kane) Crosbie-Hamblin, 88, of Worcester, passed away peacefully, in her sleep on Saturday, January 16, 2010, in home with her loving husband at her side.

    Kathy is survived by her husband and best friend of forty-three years, William Hamblin; a daughter, Judith Johns and her husband Roger of Pleasant View, Utah; two sons, Thomas Crosbie and his wife Dianne of North Brookfield and Michael Hamblin of Worcester; ten grandchildren; twenty-four great grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a grandson, Michael C. Hamblin in 2006. Born Carol Kathleen Kane on January 16, 1921 in San Antonio, Texas, the daughter of William F. and Kathryn (Barry) Kane; friends and family refer to her as "Kathy" or "Kate".

    Kathy graduated in 1940 from The Academy of the Holy Family in Baltic, Connecticut, where she was Class Valedictorian. She then graduated in the top of her class from Quinsigamond Community College School of Nursing in 1977, when she was fifty-five years old. She then worked as a Registered Nurse at Worcester State Hospital and some local nursing homes, before she retired in 1987.

    She was an avid reader, a talented, published writer of short stories and poetry. She enjoyed doing crossword puzzles and shopping at "Sally's". She loved to watch the Red Sox and Patriots. Kathy kept current on the political scene and as a staunch Democrat, wouldn't mind letting you know her views while enjoying a hearty debate on the issues. She found great joy in her family and she loved all of her pets dearly.

    Kathy's family would like to extend a heartfelt "Thank you" to all the wonderful, kind and caring people at Summit Eldercare in Worcester. Their dedication to Kathy was incredible.

    Calling hours will be held today, Monday, January 18, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. in MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester. Her funeral will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, January 19, in the funeral home. Interment will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. Her family would appreciate floral tributes.