Kathy V. Arrington, 70, departed this life on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 5:09 p.m. at Riverside Regional Medical Center, Newport News, VA. Kathy was born on August 20, 1955, to the late Hardy and Sarah Reed in Williamsburg, VA.
Kathy graduated from James Blair High School in 1973. She later attended and graduated from Norfolk State, now known as Norfolk State University, in May 1977 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. On June 23, 1979, Kathy married her soulmate, Coast Guardsman Rudolph “Rudy” Arrington, and they shared 41 years of marriage. From this union, three children were born.
Kathy was affectionately called “Boop” by Rudy and “Ma” by many others. She was well-loved by so many in the community. Kathy had a deep love for her family and enjoyed gathering them at home for fun and laughter. She loved playing challenging games, working puzzles, and was an avid Bid Whist and Spades player. She would challenge anyone who “thought” they could beat her.
Growing up on the homestead, Kathy was a lifelong member of Little Zion Baptist Church in Williamsburg, Virginia, where she served as a dedicated church clerk for more than 35 years, as well as a faithful choir member. She was also an active member of OES Pride of Grove Chapter 181 until her health began to decline, serving as Secretary for many years.
In addition to her parents, Kathy was preceded in death by her husband, Rudolph V. Arrington (2020); her sister, Vivian Terry; and her brother, William Reid.
She leaves to cherish her precious memories with her sons, Rudolph V. Arrington, III and Jamel R. Arrington; daughter, SarahKay Arrington all of Williamsburg, VA; brother, Jerome Reid (Phyllis), Fayetteville, NC; godchildren, Dr. Charisse Winston, San Diego, CA, Robert Winston, Richmond, VA, and Paneisha Eure, East Point, GA; best friend Lydia “Munsey” Winston; special Cousin, Joyce G. Smith; and host of nieces, a great nephew, cousins, extended family and friends.
A service to celebrate Kathy’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Little Zion Baptist Church. Mrs. Arrington may be viewed from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Thursday in the funeral home.
