Kathy Lynn McCreery, 76, of Ormond Beach, Florida passed away Sunday, January 11, 2026. She was born on June 17, 1949 in Canton, Illinois to Niles and Donna Ayers. Kathy graduated from Lewistown Highschool, Class of 1967 in Lewistown, Illinois and attended several years of community college at Spoon River College, in Canton, Illinois. She retired from the Department of Labor in Illinois.

After retirement, Kathy moved to the Sunshine State with her partner of 20 plus years, Ed Hein, to be with her daughter and family. She was a crafter and enjoyed creating meaningful items. Her family and dog, Tyler, were always a priority, as a mom and granmy. She made little moments special. When she was well, she made holidays special by making crafts for each special occasion, cooking and entertaining. She always included a specialty cocktail for each holiday! Kathy loved being near the beach. She enjoyed collecting shells and watching the sunset; the beach was Kathy's happy place.

Kathy is survived by her daughter, Eryn Kathleen McCreery (partner, Daniel Olejniczak); sister, Kristy "Kris" Sappington; grandson, Kaleb Zahn; granddaughter, Alexys Zahn; grandson, Jack Olejniczak; grandson, Jett Olejniczak; and other extended family and friends.

Services will be held privately at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to a charity of your choice.