[Date Prev][Date Next][Thread Prev][Thread Next][Date Index][Thread Index]

Kathleen L. Spray, 1950-2000



Kathleen L. Spray, Associate Archivist of the American Jewish Archives,
passed away on April 2, 2000. She was 50 years old.

Kathy is survived by her father, mother, two brothers, a sister, and
numerous friends. A graduate of Miami University, Kathy received an M.A.
from the public history program at Wright State University before coming to
the American Jewish Archives in 1987 as a project archivist. Two years
later, Kathy joined the AJA's staff permanently as Assistant Archivist,
rising to the rank of Associate Archivist, as well as becoming a Certified
Archivist.

During her tenure at the AJA Kathy distinguished herself as a diligent and
devoted  professional who always placed the mission and interests of the AJA
and its users above any personal agendas or priorities. Kathy was a quiet
and unobtrusive person who came to work each day and did her job, being
unfailingly polite and considerate of those with whom she worked and served.
Ever eager to assist and pitch in, Kathy took on whatever duties were asked
of her and saw them through to completion with a thoroughness and
determination that was the rival of her peers.

The best indication of this is how Kathy, without any background experience
or expertise, willingly assumed the responsibilities and duties of directing
the AJA's genealogy program. Through study, dedication, and hard work Kathy
excelled in this position and very quickly became a renowned expert in
Jewish genealogy, both in this country and abroad.

Kathy's true passions and interests went beyond the archives, where she
focused on weaving, gardening, singing in a local choir, caring for her two
cats, and participating in historical reenactments. Kathy's greatest joy,
however, was in being with her family. Together with her parents, siblings,
and their children, Kathy reveled in the joys of what is expressed best in
the Yiddish term, nachas.

Kathy faced her final days with a courage and dignity that was but a
continuation of the manner in which she lived. Through her bravery and
modest demeanor she leaves a legacy that represents the best to which all
who knew her can aspire. Without ever calling attention to herself, Kathy
did her work with a professionalism and a commitment that reflects well not
only on her personal integrity but also on the integrity of the larger
profession. This is what will endure in the hearts and minds of her family
and friends.

Kathy's passing is a tremendous loss to the American Jewish Archives, but
most especially to her family, co-workers, friends, and colleagues. We stand
together today saddened by her loss but inspired, forever and a day, by all
that she meant to us.

May her memory be always for a blessing.

Kevin Proffitt
American Jewish Archives

A posting from the Archives & Archivists LISTSERV List!

To subscribe or unsubscribe, send e-mail to listserv@listserv.muohio.edu
      In body of message:  SUB ARCHIVES firstname lastname
                    *or*:  UNSUB ARCHIVES
To post a message, send e-mail to archives@listserv.muohio.edu

Or to do *anything* (and enjoy doing it!), use the web interface at
     http://listserv.muohio.edu/archives/archives.html

Problems?  Send e-mail to Robert F Schmidt <rschmidt@lib.muohio.edu>