She was born April 29, 1949, in Ogden, Utah, to J Burton and Elaine James Dickson. As the oldest of eleven children, she learned early how to care for others while still finding time for fun. She loved spending time at her Grandparents’ farm in Morgan with her siblings and sewing at her Grandma James’s home.

She attended Ogden schools and was active in softball and church activities. After graduating from Ogden High School in 1967, she attended Weber State College, where she met Louis (Lou) Best on a blind date. They were married September 13, 1968, in the Salt Lake City LDS Temple. After living in Montana and Illinois, they settled in Ames, Iowa, where they raised their four children: Natalie, Jason, Collette, and Rachel.

Kathleen’s greatest joy was motherhood and homemaking. She was deeply involved in church service, especially Relief Society, genealogy, and shared her many creative gifts–sewing, crafting, decorating, and teaching. A talented seamstress and lifelong creator, she filled her home with beauty, warmth, and joy.

In 2004, Kathleen and Lou returned to Utah and made their home in Farr West, where family gatherings and traditions continued with the next generation.

Known for her warmth, curiosity, and Christlike love, Kathleen touched everyone she met. A devoted grandmother to sixteen grandchildren, she made magic from everyday moments. Sweet and sassy, gentle and strong, she will be dearly missed.

Kathleen is survived by her husband Lou; her four children: Natalie (Kevan) Steed, Jason (Julie) Best, Collette (Nathan) Mitchell, Rachel Rounds; sixteen grandchildren; and eight siblings.

Viewing will be held Friday, January 9, from 5:00-7:30 p.m. at the Farr West First Ward Church, 1800 West 1800 North, Farr West, Utah. Funeral services will be Saturday, January 10, at 10:00 a.m. at the same location, with a family gathering and prayer at 9:00 a.m. Interment will be at the Ogden City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to huntsmanmentalhealthfoundation.org or alzfdn.org. The family invites friends to share memories of Kathleen so they may see her through your eyes. Please help us celebrate Kathleen by sharing memories and uploading photos to her memorial page at www.myers-mortuary.com.

Services entrusted to Myers Mortuary in Ogden.