Kathleen Hammond

We are heartbroken at the loss of our beloved Kathleen Hammond. Kathleen was born February 16, 1957, in Missoula, MT. Her parents, Patrick, and Teresa (MN: McCormack) Mangan emigrated to Montana from County Mayo, Ireland and Kathleen was very proud to be a first-generation Irish American. Kathleen graduated from Loyola Sacred Heart High School, where she was a varsity cheerleader all four years, along with serving as a class officer and being on the honor roll.

As a young child, Kathleen was determined to be a flight attendant. She fulfilled her dream and had a phenomenal 35-year career with Western and Delta Airlines, flying nationally and internationally. She traveled throughout the world and loved every minute of it. Kathleen adored her airline family.

At 23, Kathleen married Mart Cox, and nine years later brought much joy to the Mangan family when her daughter Kara was born. Later she married the love of her life, Phil Hammond, and welcomed a stepdaughter, Rachel. Phil and Kathleen were married 26 years at the time of her passing. The family of four had many amazing trips and adventures together. A true Montana girl, Kathleen enjoyed hunting and fishing. She cherished her yellow labs, horses, and mules.

Kathleen was a ray of sunshine and her constant smile made everything brighter. She had a boundless passion for life and travel. She touched so many people with her kindness and generosity. She cherished her massive network of friends. Once her friend, always her friend. She loved sending birthday and Christmas cards and constantly staying in touch. Her closest circle of friends could always count on her for anything.

In 2019, Kathleen was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. Two years later, she was re-diagnosed with Multiple Systems Atrophy, a highly aggressive form of Parkinson's. Kathleen kept a positive outlook, as the disease rapidly progressed. She passed peacefully surrounded by her family.

Kathleen is preceded in death by her father, Patrick Mangan. She is survived by her husband, Phil Hammond, daughter Kara (Carter) Albrecht, stepdaughter Rachel Hammond, Mother Teresa Mangan, brother Tony (Kathy) Mangan, sisters Noreen McCormack and Patsy Mangan, in addition to many in-laws and cousins.

Phil, Kara, Rachel, and the Mangan family are deeply grateful to the cherished friends who supported Kathleen throughout her life and were there for her during her final years. And a special thank you to the caregivers at The Springs at Grand Park Memory Care Unit and Stillwater Hospice for the loving care they provided.

We love and miss you our precious Kathleen, and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.

A celebration of life is planned for November 11th. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Parkinson's Foundation or a charity of your choice.