Tributes

Kathleen Leno, born on November 18, 1953, was the third of nine children in a vibrant and loving family. In 1972, she graduated from Jefferson Moore High School and soon after answered the call to serve her country by enlisting in the United States Army. She served with honor and dedication until her discharge in 1980—a chapter of her life she carried with pride. Following her military service, Kathleen launched a successful 28-year career at AT&T (formerly Southwestern Bell), where her strong work ethic and friendly spirit left a lasting impression on colleagues and customers alike. Even after retiring in 2011, she remained active, continuing to contribute her time and talents at Ascension Healthcare and Travis County. Kathleen’s faith was the foundation of her life. Rooted in her Christ-centered upbringing, her service at Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church (Rev. A.W. Anthony Mays, Sr. Pastor) was not a passive affiliation but an active embrace of the Women's Ministry, Senior Ministry, and the Culinary Team. Beyond the church, Kathleen knew how to enjoy life. She was a member of the Red Hat Society, where she proudly served as Queen for the Texas Tea Cakes & Tiaras Chapter. She also enjoyed dancing with the Step in Motion community, where she found joy in rhythm and sisterhood. Kathleen loved people. She was a devoted mother, a loving sister and aunt, a dependable coworker, and a cherished friend. She lived with grace, gave with her whole heart, and left an unforgettable mark on all who had the blessing of knowing her. Kathleen is preceded in death by her mother, Annie Louise Leno; her father, John McGowan; and her brother, Michael Leno Sr. She is survived by her son, Detron Smith, and her daughter, Kimberly Leno, both of Austin, Texas. She also leaves behind four sisters: Patricia Banks of Dallas, Texas; Cynthia (Robert) Bolden of Humble, Texas; Sandra (Gerald Sr.) Harris of Waco, Texas; and Jessie Mae Leno of Waco, Texas. Her three brothers: Donald Ray (Thelma) Leno, Sr., and Charles Leno Sr., both of Waco, Texas, and Robert Landrum of Houston, Texas, will also cherish her memory, along with a host of other relatives and friends.

Tributes

Kathleen Leno

November 18, 1953 - April 19, 2025