Katharine Marie Masters

It is with deep love and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Katharine Marie Masters, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, veteran, and friend, whose warmth and light touched everyone who knew her. She passed on March 27, 2026 in her home in Gilbert, Arizona.

Kathy was a proud United States Air Force veteran, serving her country with honor for 10 years, including during Desert Storm. She held the rank of Staff Sergeant and served on the Scott Air Force Base Honor Guard, carrying herself with strength, discipline, and deep pride in her service.

She was the beloved wife of Bruce Masters and a deeply cherished mother to Courtney Grimm. She was like a second mom to her son-in-law, Joshua Grimm, and was lovingly known as “Mimi” to her three beloved grandchildren, Levi, Liv, and Miles. Her greatest joy in life was her family, and she was fiercely protective of those she loved. She treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband Bruce Masters, daughter Courtney Grimm, son-in-law Joshua Grimm, grandchildren; Levi Grimm, Liv Grimm, and Miles Grimm, beloved stepmother Patricia Bruns, brother Jim Bruns, sister-in-law Katie Bruns, niece Quinn Bruns, and nephew Bode Bruns.

She was preceded in death by her father Paul Bruns Sr., mother Marie Bruns, brother Paul Bruns Jr., grandmother Margaret Whytal, grandmother Mary Elizabeth Hill Bruns and her grandfather Robert “Bob” Bruns.

Born on June 27, 1964 in St. Louis, Missouri, and raised in Washington, Missouri, Kathy carried a lifelong love for her hometown. She often returned to visit her favorite places there, holding close the memories and roots that shaped her. She also held a special affection for Silver Dollar City, a place that brought her joy throughout her life.

She worked diligently from a young age and was known for her strong work ethic and dedication. She worked at Peabody Energy in St. Louis, Missouri for many years. At the time of her passing, she was working for the City of Phoenix as a Secretary III in the Water Services Department, Water Engineering Division, where she was deeply valued and respected by all who worked alongside her.

Outside of work, she embraced life fully. She loved spending time on outdoor patios, enjoying sunsets, live music, nature, and had a particular fondness of hummingbirds that reflected her compassion for all animals. In these things and the fierce love she had for her family, she found a simple yet meaningful appreciation of life.

She will be remembered for her giddy spirit, her radiant smile, and a presence that felt like warmth and sunshine. She had a unique gift for making people feel seen, valued, and special. Her witty humor brought laughter to those around her, while her selflessness and compassion reflected the depth of her heart. Her faith and love for Jesus were an important part of who she was and how she lived her life.

Above all, Kathy will be remembered for sharing her love for Jesus Christ, the love she gave so freely and the lasting impact she leaves on her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In loving memory of her, we will be hosting a celebration of life at Desert Springs Church in Chandler, Arizona on 5/2/2026 at 3:30 pm.

19620 S McQueen Rd

Chandler, AZ  85286

Furthermore, a Ceremonial Burial with Military Honors will be held at Bethel Baptist Church in Londell, Missouri on 6/6/2026 at 1:00 p.m, reception to follow.

569 Bethel Church Rd

Lonedell, MO  63060