Kathryn "Katie" Theresa Dearborn

Kathryn "Katie" Theresa Dearborn, 75, of Portland, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, July 11, 2026.

Katie was born on June 22, 1951, in Ashland, Kentucky, to William and Louise Heilker. She was the third of eight children and shared a lifelong bond with her siblings: Susan "Susie," Cynthia "Cyndi," Elizabeth "Betsy," Mary, Judith, William "Billy," and Joseph "Joey."

In 1963, the Heilker family relocated to Los Angeles, California, where Katie attended and graduated from San Fernando High School. She had a love for the arts and especially enjoyed drama and theater.

Following high school, Katie met Richard Marshall Dearborn. The two were married in Las Vegas, Nevada, on June 25, 1969, and together they welcomed three sons who became the center of her world.

Katie is survived by her loving sons, Richard "Rick," Matthew "Matt," and Daniel "Danny"; their families, including her cherished granddaughters, Tamisa, Katelyn, Morgan, Hannah, and Emma, who lovingly knew her as "Nana"; her sisters, Elizabeth "Betsy," Mary, and Judith; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

She was predeceased by her parents, William and Louise Heilker; her siblings Susan "Susie," Cynthia "Cyndi," William "Billy," and Joseph "Joey"; and her beloved granddaughter, Alexis.

Being a mother was Katie's greatest joy. She was a gentle and loving mother who rarely found it in her heart to punish her children. Instead, she watched over them with constant love, concern, and a protective eye, always wanting to know they were safe and cared for. She expressed her love through unwavering devotion, tireless hard work, and countless selfless sacrifices. As a single mother for much of her sons' childhood, she worked multiple jobs to provide for her family, demonstrating remarkable strength, determination, and an unmatched work ethic.

Throughout her career, Katie worked as a bartender and in the hospitality and insurance industries. She retired in 2013 after serving as an Administrative Assistant for an insurance company in Florida.

Katie was known for her infectious laugh, beautiful penmanship, and generous spirit. She loved cooking, spending time at the beach, and gathering with family to celebrate holidays, birthdays, and special occasions. She was happiest when surrounded by the people she loved and was rarely seen sitting still, always finding ways to help others and make everyone feel welcome.

A lifelong cat lover, Katie always shared her home with feline companions, whose unconditional affection brought her great comfort and joy. When it was time to unwind, Katie enjoyed a cold beverage while listening to the music she loved—disco and soft rock from the 1970s and 1980s, especially Steely Dan, Hall & Oates, the Bee Gees, and the Doobie Brothers.

Raised in the Catholic faith, Katie remained devoted to God throughout her life. She found comfort in prayer and in praying the Rosary, offering thanks for life's blessings and drawing strength from her faith during life's greatest challenges. Her quiet trust in God never wavered.

Katie's legacy is one of unconditional love, resilience, generosity, and faith. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Though her presence will be greatly missed, her love, laughter, and kindness will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

A Memorial Service celebrating Katie's life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Hobbs Funeral Home, 230 Cottage Road, South Portland, Maine 04106. A reception will immediately follow at the Elizabeth Hobbs Hospitality Center, where family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate Katie's life.

Our family extends our heartfelt appreciation to the staff at FallBrook Commons (Libbytown) in Portland for the exceptional care, compassion, and kindness they showed our mother. Your dedication meant more to us than words can express. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, 217 Landing Road, Westbrook, Maine 04092, in memory of Katie, whose lifelong love of cats brought her immeasurable joy.