Kathleen "Kathy" Lehman, 83, passed away peacefully at home on October 24, 2024, surrounded by family after a brief illness. She was born in Portland, Maine, on February 17, 1941, to Francis Joseph O'Brien and Mildred Ann Newton of Everett, Massachusetts. Kathy had one sister, Mary Anne.

Kathy spent her early years attending Catholic schools until she discovered her passion for sports. She often begged her father to let her play basketball, and eventually entered the South Portland School System, where she won the foul shooting contest for her team. She graduated from high school in 1959. Kathy went on to earn her nursing degree from Mercy School of Nursing in 1962.

After graduating from nursing school, she moved to Florida with some classmates and began her nursing career at Memorial Hospital. It was in Florida that she met Charles "Chuck" Lehman. They married and had three children: Michelle, Mike, and Dawn.

Their family was often on the go, including memorable trips to Mount Rushmore and the Rocky Mountains, where Mike broke his foot on one of their many camping adventures. The family traveled throughout New England, before deciding to settle in South Portland, Maine.

After the children were grown, Kathy and Chuck lived several years in Myrtle Beach. Kathy returned home, and with her daughter, Michelle, cared for her ailing mother, Mildred, until she reached the age of 97. This was a decision both Kathy and Michelle cherished and they wouldn't have had it any other way.

While in Maine, Kathy reconnected with many old school friends. Her lifelong friends Delores Monterio and Barbara Smith quickly rekindled their bond, picking up right where they left off. They enjoyed nearly 78 years of friendship together, the three amigos.

An avid sports fan, Kathy participated in a bowling league and loved golfing. Sundays were reserved for watching the Patriots with Mike Sr. and Mike Jr. She always prepared a big pot of chili for game day. Everyone became very quiet when she got mad, or the Patriots were close to losing. Who would have thought she would see Brady bring home so many rings! During halftime intermission, Kathy and her son Mike would discuss politics, a topic she followed closely and was always up on current events. She recalled fondly attending baseball games with her father, especially one visit to Fenway Park in 1950 where she received an autographed ball signed by the Red Sox team.

Among the most precious people in her life were her grandchildren and her great-granddaughter, Gabrielle. She cherished many moments with Jess, Victor, Danny, Mike Jr., and little "Gabby" who brought her so much joy. Kathy enjoyed many times at the shore house in New Jersey with her daughter Dawn and Vic, and her grandchildren. You all meant the world to her! She spent many special one-on-one moments with each of you that are memories to cherish in your heart.  She loved you all the same and equally in abundance!

Kathy's home was always a welcoming place and open to those in need. Her humor, caring nature, and generosity were well known and appreciated by all. Over the years, her home became the meeting house on Meeting House Hill, where many holidays were celebrated. She also gave a home to many beloved pets, and was especially fond of her last little dog, Sophie.

Kathy's bond with friend Carla Delude was particularly special; they enjoyed many memorable nights together over the years. Her favorite family night during COVID was watching "Svengoolie" on Saturday night with Michelle, Mike, Theresa and Carla. We would playfully say "Who's the third daughter tonight?"

She is survived by her ex-husband Charles Lehman, her daughter Michelle Lehman, her son Michael Lehman and wife Theresa Lehman, grandson Mike Lehman, daughter Dawn Kay and Vic Kay, grandsons Victor Kay and fiancée Kala Hebert, Danny Kay, granddaughter Jess Lehman and Dan McLean, great-granddaughter Gabby and nephew Mike Robertson.

Kathy is predeceased by her sister Mary Ann, brother-in-law Duncan, and her parents, Mildred and Francis.

Special thanks to her neighbors on Clinton Street for their kindness of meals and comfort, as well as the hospice staff who provided wonderful support throughout the duration. Extra gratitude goes to her nurse, Kati Dee, for her exceptional companionship and care.

Thanks to her friends Delores Monterio and Ann Swasey for ensuring Kathy's vote was counted, which meant so much to her. Special appreciation goes to Theresa Lehman for her support during this time; she has been a rock for the family.

Thank you to everyone who crossed paths with Kathy; she was truly a joy and will be missed by all who knew her.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate her life from 1:00-3:00 PM on Saturday, November 2 at Hobbs Funeral Home on Cottage Road in South Portland, with a reception to follow at the Snow Squall for a celebration of life at 3:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to St Jude or your favorite charity.