Kathleen M. Batjes

Kathleen Mary “Kathy” Batjes, 82, of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, passed away on Monday, September 7, 2026.

She was born January 30, 1944, in Oak Park, IL, the daughter of Frank Martin McHugh and Beatrice E. (Ofenlock) McHugh.

Kathy married John Wayne Batjes on August 19, 1967, and together they built a life centered around family and faith.

Kathy was a committed Christian whose faith was evident in the way she lived and in her genuine appreciation for everyone she encountered. She was an encourager, a trusted source of wise counsel, and a natural leader. Her kindness, warmth, and genuine care for others left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know her.

Education was an important part of Kathy’s life. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Northern Illinois University and later her master’s degree in Teaching and Leadership from St. Xavier University. She spent 25 years as an elementary school teacher and in speech correction, where she was respected for her skill in the classroom and her dedication to the teaching profession. Kathy was a lifelong learner who also loved sharing her knowledge and her faith with others.

Her Christian faith extended well beyond Sunday mornings. Kathy was active in Bible study, Christian education, and women’s ministry, serving as both a leader and teacher. She was a member of Village Bible Church in Hot Springs Village and had previously been a member of Fox Valley Church. She was also a member of P.E.O. Chapter CH and Delta Zeta Sorority.

Above all, Kathy loved her family. She treasured being a mother to her three children and took great joy in her grandchildren. She had a special way of encouraging each of them and making them feel genuinely loved and important. Her family will remember her wisdom and kindness, but perhaps most of all, they will remember her smile and her laughter that could fill a room.

Kathy is survived by her beloved husband, John Wayne Batjes; her children, David A. Batjes (Kristen Batjes), Jennifer A. Bray (Dane Bray), and Elizabeth E. Parham (Michael Parham); her grandchildren, Morgan Batjes, McClaine Bray, Hayden Bray, and Addison Bray; and her sisters, Deborah O’Mara (Brian) and Jane Gizyn (the late Greg Gizyn).

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Joan Van Fleet (James).

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 19 at Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave., Crystal Lake from 10 until the time of a funeral service at 10:30am. Pastor Tom Atchison of Fox Valley Church, Dundee Township, will be officiating. Burial will follow at Crystal Lake Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Village Bible Church or Athletes in Action (CRU).