In Loving Memory of M. Kathleen "Kathy" Copas Barrett

April 7, 1946–May 26, 2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of M. Kathleen "Kathy" Copas Barrett, who entered into rest after a well-fought battle on May 26, 2026, at the age of 80.

Born in humble beginnings in Hickory Ridge, Tompkinsville, Kentucky, to Veora Isley Roach Copas and James Claude Copas, Kathy lived a life rooted in faith, love, service, and food. From an early age, she carried a spirit of kindness that touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Kathy spent her childhood between Tompkinsville, Kentucky, and Indianapolis and Columbus, Indiana, places that helped shape her spirit and love of family. In 1967, while attending a singles dance at the Stop 11 Chapel in Indianapolis, Kathy met a handsome young Army soldier from Las Vegas, Nevada, named Ray Sheldon Barrett. Kathy initially tried to pawn him off on one of her friends, but Ray was not easily dissuaded. Their connection quickly grew, and on February 16, 1968, Kathy and Ray were married in Columbus, Indiana. In 1970, they were sealed for time and all eternity in the St. George Utah Temple.

Shortly after they were married, Kathy moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where she lived with her in-laws while Ray served during the Vietnam War. When Ray returned home, they remained in Las Vegas and began building their family together. There they welcomed their children Karin Lyn, Christopher Neil, and Elizabeth Ann into the world. Later, the family packed up and returned to Columbus, Indiana, shortly before the birth of their son, Robert Sheldon. Kathy and Ray spent many treasured years in Indiana raising their children, creating a home filled with faith, laughter, hard work, and good food. In 2002 they packed up and moved their home to Saratoga Springs, Utah, where Kathy created a beautiful home, spent her days participating in the Eagle Mountain Seniors, caring for her grandchildren, and serving in her church callings.

Kathy was the kind of person who showed her love to all those who entered her home by cooking for them. She was a true southern mama, and food was her love language. Family gatherings were made special by her chocolate pies, beans and cornbread, meatloaf, and biscuits and gravy. Countless memories were created by "The Family Cook." She adored watching HER Utah Jazz, playing San Francisco rummy, using her Kohl's cash to buy things for her grandchildren, and sewing. She had a green thumb, loved gardening, and used her garden's bounty to can and create delicious dishes for her family.

A devoted wife, mother, Nana, sister, aunt, and friend, Kathy dedicated her life to her family and her faith. She found strength in her faith and was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she served as a Seminary, Primary, and Relief Society teacher. She and Ray served in the Indianapolis, Indiana, Deaf Branch for many years. Countless missionaries have been fed by her in the Barrett home. She and Ray also opened their home to many who needed a place to stay.

Those who knew Kathy will remember her for her spunk, strength, strong opinions, and unwavering faith. Even during difficult times and multiple struggles in life, she always trusted in the Lord.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years—Ray Sheldon Barrett; sister—Patricia Ann Sanders; brother—William Robert "Bill" Copas; her children—Karin Bish, Chris Barrett (Pam), Beth Morrell (Gayln), and Bo Barrett (Shaena); 10 greatly adored grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; and multiple nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her mother—Veora Isley Roach Copas; father—James Claude Copas; mother-in-law—Iris Maxine Jarrett Barrett; father-in-law—Robert "Bob" Barrett; sisters-in-law—Renee Sharon Barrett Harper and Debra Liggett Copas; brothers-in-law—Douglas Lee Barrett and Daniel Barr Sanders.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 30, at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 88 W Harbor Parkway, Saratoga Springs, UT. A viewing will occur at the same location from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Flowers may be sent to Wing Mortuary in Lehi, UT.

Those who would like to participate virtually may join via Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/92293813439?pwd=ZUFaa1RGR2VKNlVFUG5HeVJBTkFNUT09