Kathleen "Kathie" Marie Eckert

Kathleen (Kathie) Eckert of Daniel Island, South Carolina, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and woman of faith, was born on August 9, 1943, in Cleveland, Ohio. She was called home to the Lord on February 2, 2026.

Kathie was the devoted wife of Lt. Col. (RET) Ronald R. Eckert, with whom she shared 58 years of marriage. They met on the beach in Newport, Rhode Island in 1961. While visiting relatives, Kathie crossed paths with Ron, who was then a young lifeguard. Though life eventually pulled them in different directions, a second chance meeting seven years later led to a short courtship and nearly six decades of adventures, military life, and a bond that only grew deeper with time.

Together, they built a life grounded in love, commitment, and family. She was a loving mother to three daughters: Kelli Eckert, Kristen Neese (Michael) and Kimberly Eckert. She was a proud grandmother to Hudson Neese, Sarah Beth Neese, and Jack Neese who brought her immense joy.

Kathie is preceded in death by her parents William O’Connor and Martha Anne Norton; her brother Patrick Norton and her sister Connie Mark. She is survived by her loving husband, daughters and grandchildren as well as her sister Phyllis Ott and her nieces, nephews and cousins.

As a dedicated military spouse, Kathie carried many responsibilities, yet her greatest priority was always her family. Throughout their journey, Kathie was a vibrant presence within the Marine Corps community. During their time at Camp Lejeune, she showcased her grace and spirit as a member of the Corp-leers, a regional vocal and dance group. Whether she was performing at base galas or rehearsing with her fellow spouses, she found immense joy in the camaraderie and rhythm of military life.

Kathie enjoyed a long and successful career in real estate, where she was known for her dedication, professionalism, and care for others. Over the years, with her trademark “Super Service with a Smile,” she helped countless military families find homes in communities across Northern Virginia. Her success reflected her strong values, integrity, and tireless work ethic, and she was consistently recognized as a Top Producer at Coldwell Banker throughout her 37 year career.

An avid golfer, Kathie found some of her happiest moments on the greens. She loved the game not just for the sport, but for the company, frequently playing alongside her friends, her daughters, and her beloved grandsons. She remained a fixture on the course even after she was no longer actively playing, happily riding along in the cart to cheer on her family and soak in the sun and laughter.

Affectionately known as Gigi to her grandchildren, Kathie was an avid planner of family travel including countless trips to the beach and wonderful family holidays in Costa Rica, Paris, London and Hawaii. A true entertainer at heart, she loved to share in the performing arts with family and friends and she planted this seed with her daughters early, experiencing many Broadway performances with her daughters and friends throughout the years.

Kathie’s faith was a steady and guiding presence throughout her life. She lived with humility, compassion, and a deep sense of gratitude, finding strength in prayer and trust in God. She lived out her Catholic faith across the seasons of her life, and she remained active at St. Mary’s Church in Newport, RI and St. Clare of Assisi in Daniel Island, SC.

Kathie will be remembered for her quiet strength, her devotion to her family, and the love she shared so generously. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, perseverance, and kindness.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church, 990 Etiwan Park Street, Daniel Island, SC 29492. A luncheon will follow at The Daniel Island Club, 600 Island Park Drive, Charleston, South Carolina 29492.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial gifts be made to: Building Fund Saint Clare of Assisi Church, 255 Seven Farms Drive, Suite 100 Charleston, South Carolina 29492 or the American Diabetes Association.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at mcalister-smith.com

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation - Mount Pleasant, 1520 Rifle Range Rd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464, 843-884-3833.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her.