Kathleen Frances Yildirim, 67, of Elkton, MD passed away on Monday, September 2, 2024. Born in Elkton on September 7, 1956, she was the daughter of the late James and Kathryn Ferrese Ellwood.

Kathleen gave many dedicated years to her work at Wawa. A true pillar and matriarch of her family, she had a profound love for them and took great joy in hosting gatherings that brought everyone together. Her home was a haven for laughter and unforgettable memories. Kathleen enjoyed crafts and adventures on cruises, and regular bingo and poker nights with family and friends.

Survivors include her loving husband, Receb Yildirim; daughters, Lisa Horsmon, N. Fort Myers, FL, Kathryn Bekka (Youssef), Elkton, MD, and Mary Puckett (Korey), Bel Air, MD; stepson, Davon Morton, Baltimore, MD; grandchildren, Erica Horsmon-Spangler, Jordan Horsmon, Soumia Bekka-Kenenske (Zaavan), Sofia Bekka, Selma Bekka, Aubrey Puckett, and Aria Puckett; great-granddaughter, Layla Copping; and siblings, Barbara Willen, Theresa Ellwood, Norma Cox, Michael Ellwood, and Patricia McKeown.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Helen Dunlap and Baxter Ellwood.

Funeral service will be held 10 AM, Thursday, September 5, 2024 at Hicks Home for Funerals, 103 W. Stockton Street, Elkton, MD 21921, with visitation beginning at 9 AM. Interment will be in St. Rose of Lima Cemetery, Chesapeake City, MD.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, or checks payable to Mary Puckett for a foundation to be created in Kathleen's name by her daughters and granddaughters continuing her annual "blessings" to members of the community, in care of Hicks Home for Funerals, P.A. at the above address.