Kathleen Ann Been

Kathleen Ann "Kathy" Been, age 79, passed peacefully from this earth on May 29, 2026, surrounded by the love of family and the memories of a life well lived.

Kathy was born on December 13, 1946, in North Charleroi, Pennsylvania to Robert and Marge Reese. She later moved with her family to Okmulgee, where she graduated from Okmulgee High School. Following graduation, she moved to St. Louis to pursue her education at Gradwall University, earning her certification as a Medical Technologist (MT) and working as a laboratory technician.

While in St. Louis, Kathy met Daniel Schopp, a fellow Catholic. The couple returned to Okmulgee to build their life together, marrying and sharing life until Daniel's passing. They were blessed with two sons, Robert D. Curtis and Joseph R. Curtis.

Following Daniel's death, Kathy remained in Okmulgee, where she was surrounded by the love and support of family while raising her young children. There she met Gilbert Curtis, and together they welcomed two children, Mike Curtis and Amy Kathleen Curtis. After Gilbert, Kathy found love when she met Ronnie Been.

Ronnie became the love of Kathy's life and they were married on July 11th 1990. Together they built a partnership filled with devotion, laughter, and unwavering companionship. They were inseparable, and Ronnie remained faithfully by her side throughout the rest of her life. Through their union, Kathy also gained two beloved bonus children, Ronnie Been Jr. and Angelia Dixon, whom she loved as part of her family.

Kathy found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved fishing, reading, crocheting, and baking. Even when health challenges prevented her from enjoying many of the treats she made, she continued baking for the family she loved so dearly. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, comfort, and generosity. Family and friends eagerly anticipated her meals and often requested her cooking, knowing every dish was prepared with love.

One of Kathy's happiest places was Dripping Springs Lake. Some of Ronnie's most treasured memories were of their quiet days spent fishing there together. Kathy would sit peacefully reading while Ronnie helped tend her fishing pole. Those moments in nature-filled with companionship, contentment, and love-became cherished memories that will forever remain in his heart.

Kathy's life was defined by kindness, resilience, generosity, and a deep love for her family. She was always giving of herself, always making sure those she loved were cared for and never left hungry. Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, extended family, and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Though her presence will be deeply missed, the love she shared, the meals she prepared, the memories she created, and the lives she touched will never be forgotten.

Services have been entrusted to Schaudt Funeral Service. Friends & family may leave condolences and kind words of comfort at www.schaudtfuneralservice.com