Kathleen Gaskill Mihaly, age 66, of Bandana, Kentucky, passed away unexpectedly on May 9, 2026. Born in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Kathleen carried a deep love for her hometown throughout her life.
She attended Princess Anne High School in Virginia Beach and later Old Dominion University. Kathleen later moved to Colorado to care for her father, whom she loved dearly, and while there developed an even deeper appreciation for the beauty of the mountains and the spirit of the American West.
Kathleen is survived by her former husband, Mark Mihaly of Virginia Beach; her son, Taylor Mihaly of Virginia Beach, affectionately known to her as her “T-Man”; her daughter, Taryn Nicole Mize (Brandon) Virginia Beach, lovingly called “Peanut” by her mother; and her three beloved granddaughters, Courtney (Laredo), Ava, and Addison, all of Virginia Beach. She is also survived by her brother, Harold Gaskill, and his wife, Erlinda Gaskill, of Virginia Beach, as well as many in-laws who will miss her dearly.
She was preceded in death by her parents Harold and Kay Gaskill.
Kathleen was most proud of her children and grandchildren. She was especially looking forward to attending the college graduation of her oldest granddaughter this weekend, a milestone she had greatly anticipated. Kathleen had a deep appreciation for life and the many things that brought her joy. She loved gardening, especially flowers, and enjoyed antiques and antique shopping. She was drawn to the spirit and beauty of the Old West, loved horseback riding, Native American culture, and the mountains of Colorado, where she lived for many years. She also cherished her time in Virginia Beach, especially boating, beach days, and time spent on the water with her family.
One of Kathleen’s favorite places in the world was Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. She loved driving on the beach there and treasured the peaceful beauty of the Outer Banks. Cape Hatteras will also be the place where her ashes will be scattered, alongside her father’s, in a place that held deep meaning and cherished memories for their family.
Kathleen’s life reads like a song book. Music was one of her greatest joys and comforts throughout her life. Her favorite musician was Dan Fogelberg, whose songs and lyrics stayed close to her heart for many years. She especially cherished attending a concert with Vince Gill and the Eagles a few years ago, an evening she later wrote about in her journal as bringing her back to some of the happiest times in her life. Her daughter, Taryn, shared that whenever she hears “I Still Believe in You,” by Vince Gill, she immediately thinks of her mom, who played the song often throughout her childhood. It remains a beautiful reminder of Kathleen’s love, warmth, and the special memories they shared together. Her son, Taylor’s favorite musical memory of his mom was attending his very first concert with her, the Red-Hot Chili Peppers, after one of his baseball games. (she faithfully attended his games and cheered him on through the years). It became one of those special memories that forever connected music, family, and the unwavering love and support she gave her children.
Kathleen recently posted on social media a favorite song from the Bee Gees’ “How Do You Mend a Broken Heart,” a song that now leaves many who loved her asking that very question.
Kathleen was a proud and patriotic American who held strong convictions and lived life with passion and authenticity. She will be remembered for her humor, her strength, her spirited personality, and above all, her deep love for her family.
Her children and grandchildren will especially miss her comforting meals, including her stuffed pasta shells and grilled London broil, which were family favorites and made every gathering feel like home.
A private family ceremony will be held in Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. A celebration of Kathleen’s life will be announced at a later time.
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved her.
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