Raised in Tribute:
$2489.60Kathleen (Kathy) Mary Scaletty, age 64, passed away on August 8, 2025, surrounded by her family.
Kathy was born on September 24, 1960, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Thomas and Patricia (Gaynor) Spellacy. In 1965, the family relocated to Indianapolis, where Kathy and her siblings attended St. Michael the Archangel Catholic School. From a young age, Kathy’s vibrant personality flourished through many activities, including cheerleading (often for her twin brother Kevin’s team), dance, and volleyball. Her mother, whom she adored, taught Irish dance lessons in their basement, where Kathy’s love for her Irish heritage took root, a passion she later passed on to her own children.
A proud graduate of Cathedral High School, Class of 1978, Kathy later earned degrees in Human Resources and Psychology from Kansas University. Upon graduation, Kathy married Mark Scaletty. Together, they moved to Houston, where she began her career in Human Resources. It was her deep love of family that brought her back to Indianapolis.
Kathy’s intelligence, drive, and love for people led her to a successful career, 29 years of which she spent at ADP and six years at Keter Environmental Services as Vice President of Human Resources. Kathy loved her co-workers, many of whom became like family over the years, and she took great joy in her work.
Kathy proudly told everyone that her greatest accomplishments were her children, James (Meghan), Erin, Lauren, and Lindsay (Justin VanCuren), and her two grandchildren, Liam and Finley. Being a grandparent to Liam and Finley was pure joy for her, and up until her last day she would light up at the sight of their pictures. She was always ready to whisk Liam off to the Dollar Tree, spend the afternoon at the pool, or try to sign him up for every sport at his school. She and Liam referred to each other as best friends.
As a mom, she was endlessly supportive. She traveled all over the country for volleyball tournaments and Irish dance competitions, and she always returned from work trips with a small gift to show her children they were never far from her thoughts. In retirement, she continued her tradition of thoughtfulness by planning treasured family vacations, often scouting destinations and activities in advance to ensure everyone had a memorable time. Her love and dedication to family were at the heart of who she was.
Family traditions were her specialty. Her last Easter was wonderfully over-the-top, every Christmas centered around a 20-foot Christmas tree, and St. Patrick’s Day always came with the best attire, the right menu, and Irish dancing. She believed every holiday deserved to be celebrated to the fullest, and her love of gatherings extended well beyond the calendar. She cherished quality time with family and friends, whether around her own table, on the back porch, or traveling the world together.
Kathy had a contagious laugh, an infectious smile, and a kindness that knew no bounds. She was quick to make friends and had an uncanny ability to remember all of them and their stories for years. With every new chapter of her life, she formed instant, lasting connections. She was a remarkable mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, wife, friend, and mentor whose vibrant spirit and love of life made every day feel like a celebration.
Kathy will be deeply missed by her devoted children and grandchildren. Her example of unwavering love, humor, and generosity will continue to shape their lives in countless ways.
Her seven brothers and sisters, Kerry Bender (Mark), Kevin Spellacy, Colleen Cline (Mark), Mary Clare Spellacy, Shawn Spellacy (Allison), Daniel Spellacy, and Meghan MacKelly (Matthew), and her sweetheart, Russell Hyde, are grateful for the many moments of laughter, support, and togetherness they shared with her.
Her nieces and nephews, Joseph and Michael Bender (Mallory); Samantha and Anna Spellacy; Emily, Matthew, Caroline, and Catherine Cline; Peyton and Parker Spellacy; and Colin and Nora MacKelly, will always remember her as the aunt who celebrated their successes, cheered them on, and brought joy to every gathering.
Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Patricia Spellacy; three siblings, Thomas, Patricia, and Patrick Spellacy; and her husband of 28 years, Mark Scaletty. She leaves behind a legacy of love, tradition, and connection that will continue to bring people together for years to come.
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