[Introduction] Welcome, everyone. For those hear who do not know me, my name is Winston and I am Katherine’s son. Thank you all for being here to celebrate my mother's life. Looking around this room, I see a lot of faces full of love as we all have been deeply touched by her spirit. [Talk about her personality and influence on others] My mom was a very patient, compassionate woman. She cared greatly for every living thing--her friends, family, and numerous pets. It was so important to her that everyone around her was happy and nurtured, and she'd go out of her way to bring a smile to your face. [Give facts about her life] I was her only child, but I shared the honor of having her as a mentor and role model with the thousands of students that were lucky enough to have her as a teacher. She called them her “kiddlens” and loved every one of them. She taught English and poetry at the same high school for more than 25 years. Many of her former students kept in touch with her over the years and a few of them are here with us today. That's how special she was, she connected with people on such a deep level that she made a lasting impression on her students long after the fact. I got to experience the best parts of both of her roles: mother and teacher. Her love for me and my father was insurmountable. She was very present in my life, always there to hear my piano recitals, watch my soccer games, teach me how to poach an egg (the old-school way), or referee sharks and minos when my friends came over in the summertime. [A memory or short anecdote] I'll never forget her sitting on the edge of the pool with a chunk of watermelon, she'd spit the seeds at whoever was the shark each time they snuck a peek. Then she’d yell “Minnows, onward!” in a random accent—her Australian accent morphed into British and then Irish, ha! I’ll miss her fun-loving spirit. [Her favorite things] My mom also loved animals and was always taking in all kinds of creatures, from wounded birds to stray cats, dogs, and even an injured doe one time. Our house became a healing haven for all creatures, which she nurtured just as she would a child. [Lessons] She taught me the value of each small kind deed. She’d always say, “Remember, you get what you give.” And she gave her whole being into raising me, loving my father, warming the hearts of friends, and nurturing the hearts and minds of all of her students. [Her legacy] There was a lot of love in my mom’s life because she gave so much love to everyone else. She was an incredible teacher and mother who inspired all of us even in the smallest ways. Even though she is gone now I know that her legacy will live on in all of us. Before her passing, she gave these last words to be read in her honor: “Life is a playground, so sing, dance, and swing with all the joy in your heart.” [Conclusion] As we grieve the loss of this incredible woman, remember that grief is the price of love. Mom, thank you for everything you’ve given us during your precious time on earth. Your kind eyes, spirited laugh, and genuine warmth will live on in all of our hearts. May she rest in peace.