# Katherine Marie Windham, 89 — a life across states, family, and new beginnings
KETCHUM, Idaho — Katherine Marie Windham died peacefully on Sept. 6, 2026, at the age of 89. She was born in Lake Charles, Louisiana, on Aug. 3, 1937, to Frances Holland Windham and Edward David Windham. Known for her tall stature and distinctive white curls, she became a familiar and warmly remembered presence wherever she lived.
In 1956 Katherine married John Stilwell Wood. They raised five daughters while living in Short Hills, New Jersey. In 1970 the family moved to Denver, Colorado.
While living in Vermont Katherine took on a variety of jobs. She worked as an apple picker, a sales clerk at Skihaus, a weaver for Mary Lynn O'Shea, and sold advertising for local radio stations and the Addison Independent. In 1987 she sold the farm and moved to East Middlebury.
In 1995 Katherine began working as a foot reflexologist, a role in which she was affectionately known as "The Foot Fairy." That period marked another reinvention and sustained engagement with people in the community.
Katherine eventually moved to Idaho to be closer to her daughters. She formed strong bonds with both people and animals throughout her life, including neighborhood wildlife such as a creature she called "Foxy" in Ketchum and her dogs—Ratsy, Honey and Cher.
A private burial ceremony will be followed by a festive celebration of life in Middlebury, Vermont.
Katherine was described as warm, comforting and positive. Her voice retained a hint of Louisiana, and she was known for creating luminous connections with family, friends and animals. Family members referred to her by affectionate names including Mom, Nanny, Granny and Foot Fairy.
- Born: Aug. 3, 1937, Lake Charles, Louisiana
- Died: Sept. 6, 2026, Ketchum, Idaho
- Married: John Stilwell Wood (1956)
- Children: Five daughters
- Known locally as: "The Foot Fairy"
Katherine's family closed the obituary with a simple, affectionate note: "We love you a bushel and a peck!"