Kathryn Spore

Beloved teacher and friend, Kathryn Louise Spore, 82, of New Haven, MO, departed this life on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.

Kathryn was born in Hope, Arkansas on December 6, 1938, the daughter of the late Reverend Kenneth & Florence (Cypert) Spore.

After graduating from Monticello High School, Kathryn received her bachelor’s degree from Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas, in 1960, and continued her education at the University of Missouri-Columbia, where she earned her master’s degree.

Kathryn’s calling was as a teacher, a journey which began at Caruthersville High School in 1961. In August 1965, she moved to New Haven High School, where she taught English and American History until May 1997. For Kathryn, teaching was a passion, not a profession. Her great desire to bring literature, music, and American history alive to her students is perhaps her greatest legacy, in addition to her singular personality and enthusiasm. Each student who went through NHHS during Kathryn’s teaching tenure was impacted by her. She is truly a Shamrock legend.

She always encouraged her students to broaden their perspectives through travel, an idea she modeled via her own adventures throughout the United States, Canada, Western Europe, and Russia. Her most beloved destination was New Zealand, and she was delighted to return there to celebrate turning 80.

Fond of animated conversation, Kathryn relished discussing politics and current events, a love only eclipsed by her enjoyment of good food and a good Sauvignon Blanc.

Kathryn is preceded in death by her parents and her brother Harlan Spore. She is survived by a family of friends, and several generations of students.

Kathryn was a member of New Haven United Methodist Church, New Haven, Missouri and also volunteered at Mercy Hospital in Washington.

Visitation will be held Thursday, September 2 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Toedtmann & Grosse Funeral Home, New Haven, where a memorial service will follow at 6 p.m., with Pastor Brad Urban officiating. Friends ask those attending to please wear a mask.

Memorials may be given to New Haven School District or New Haven United Methodist Church. C/O Toedtmann & Grosse Funeral Home.