In Loving Memory of Kathy Hepinstall Parks
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kathy Hepinstall Parks, a cherished poet, New York Times bestselling novelist, award-winning advertising copywriter, and beloved friend, who left this world on August 17, 2025, in Pinal County, Arizona. Kathy, whose life was defined by creativity, humor, and a remarkable gift for language, passed away by suicide, leaving family, friends, and readers mourning the loss of a brilliant and vibrant soul.
Kathy’s extraordinary career as a writer left an indelible mark on the literary and creative world. She was celebrated for her uncanny ability to bring words to life—crafting novels that blended wit and depth, poetry that resonated with raw honesty, and advertising campaigns that captured both heart and humor. Her unique voice made the ordinary feel profound and the profound feel wonderfully human. Whether she was inspiring laughter, reflection, or tears, Kathy’s work had the power to stay with people long after the final page was turned.
Those who knew her best often remarked, “That’s so Kathy… I wish I could write like that.” It was a sentiment that reflected both admiration for her talent and recognition of her irrepressible originality. Kathy’s words were never just ink on a page; they were pieces of herself—clever, candid, sometimes mischievous, and always deeply authentic.
But Kathy’s life was defined by much more than her professional accomplishments. She was a woman of vibrant contradictions: a teller of off-color jokes who also wrote lines of breathtaking beauty, a funky dancer who never minded being a little offbeat, a devoted lover of cats (who sometimes ignored her), and a compassionate friend to the elderly (who only occasionally tolerated her antics). Kathy’s presence could light up any room, and her unpredictable humor and zest for life made her unforgettable to all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Her journey, however, was not without hardship. In recent years, Kathy faced difficult challenges as she struggled with the effects of SSRIs, including Prozac, which caused her significant physical discomfort. Yet even in the face of these struggles, she approached life with honesty, courage, and perseverance. By being open about her battles, Kathy inspired others to face their own challenges with grace and resilience. Her ability to confront pain while still offering laughter and connection was a testament to her strength of spirit.
To her family, friends, and countless readers, Kathy will be remembered not only for her artistry but also for her warmth, generosity, and loyalty. She had an extraordinary gift for building lasting relationships, whether through late-night conversations, shared laughter, or quiet gestures of kindness. She fostered a community of fellow creatives and readers who were drawn to her authenticity, and her influence continues to ripple far beyond those immediate circles.
Kathy leaves behind a remarkable legacy of creativity and courage. Her novels, poems, and essays will continue to inspire, challenge, and comfort readers for generations to come. They reflect the mind of a woman who was endlessly curious, unflinchingly honest, and unafraid to embrace both the absurdity and the beauty of life.
While her passing is a heartbreaking loss, Kathy Hepinstall Parks’ life remains a reminder of the power of art, humor, and human connection. Her words and her presence will echo through the lives she touched, ensuring that her spirit lives on.
Memorial arrangements are private at the request of her family. They ask that those who wish to honor Kathy’s memory do so by reflecting on the light she brought into their lives, celebrating her gifts, and extending compassion to those facing struggles with mental health.
Kathy Hepinstall Parks will forever be remembered as a brilliant poet, a gifted novelist, a beloved friend, and an indelible force of inspiration. Her life was one of light, language, and love—and though she is no longer with us, her legacy will continue to shine.
