Kathryn 'Katie' M. Herring

Kathryn “Katie” Mae Linnell Herring, 66, of Mechanicsville, entered eternity early Sunday morning, August 16, 2026. She survived an aggressive form of breast cancer for 18 years. Visitation will be Thursday, August 20, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., and the funeral service will be Friday, August 21, at 10:30 a.m., both at Fry Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Tipton Masonic Cemetery.

Katie was born during a snowstorm on December 12, 1959, in Iowa City, IA, the daughter of Roy Edward Linnell and Sandi Kay (Smith) Cook. She attended school in West Liberty, graduating from West Branch in 1978.

Katie made her home in West Branch, where she raised her cherished children. She worked as the assistant to C. Vivian Stringer at the University of Iowa and later served as principal’s secretary at West Branch Elementary School and Lincoln Elementary School in Iowa City.

Katie was active in her community, volunteering as a Sunday school teacher, youth group and Bible camp leader, T-ball and high school pep squad coach. Later, she took pride in being a member of the Tipton Garden Club.

In 1995, Katie met Bob Herring. They enjoyed an active life and traveling, while Katie supported Bob as he grew his farming business. Their families were united when they married on February 10, 2003. Together, they savored relaxing winters in Florida, where in the neighborhood Katie was fondly referred to as “The Pro Tem Mayor of Golden Beach” and nicknamed the “island butterfly” due to her tenacious attitude and ability to make friends near and far. Katie enjoyed nature, biking, swimming, dancing, pickleball, quilting and art making. Laughing with friends and family was “the best medicine” and she treasured time with her grandchildren.

Katie will be deeply missed by the lives she touched, especially those who survive her, husband Bob, her children, Natalie (Skylor) Maxson, and Austin Slach; her stepchildren Robby (Jennifer) Herring and Amy Gingerich, eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Sisters Chris Olney and Heidi (Roger) Morrison, brothers Todd Linnell and Ed (Huyen) Linnell, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends from all walks of life, including best friend for over 55 years, Anne Weinard, and her beloved poodle, Sheldon.

Katie was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, infant brother, Johnny and stepbrother, Shawn Cook.