Kathy Upshaw

Kathy Jean Upshaw was born on June 13, 1966. She was welcomed into our family, by way of adoption. Her new family, who adored her, included our parents, Adolph C. Upshaw, Sr. and Lillian L. Upshaw, brothers Adolph C. Upshaw, Jr., Billy R. Upshaw Sr., all of whom preceded her in death, and Bobby L. Upshaw of Oklahoma City.

Lillian was determined to bring a daughter into the family she could pamper and spoiled. Her early life was filled with love, frilly dresses, and Black Barbie dolls. Kathy was surrounded by a family and an extended family of cousins, aunts, and uncles who cherished her.

Kathy attended Culbertson Elementary and Shields Heights Elementary schools before attending Capitol Hill Middle School. Like Billy and Bobby, Kathy became a proud member of the Southeast High School Spartan family, graduating in 1984. She earned varsity letters as a member of the Spartan Girls’ Basketball team.

After graduation, Kathy attended Rose State College, before attending Langston University.

Kathy faced many challenges in her adult life, working diligently to overcome them. She was a survivor in spite of the setbacks she encountered. She never stopped believing and having faith. She would accept the call of God and be baptized. Kathy lived her last years in the area where she grew up and succumbing to complications of diabetes.

Kathy is survived by her brother Bobby, nephews, Billy R. Upshaw. Jr., Marcus Upshaw, and niece Olivia Upshaw, all of OKC, as well as a host of loving cousins.