Kathryn Allette Lee Haynes Obituary, Death – Beloved Auburn Mother, Wife and Grandmother Dies at 59 After Cancer Battle
Kathryn Allette Lee Haynes, a beloved mother, wife, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Auburn, Alabama, on August 29, 2026. She was 59 years old.
Known affectionately by family and friends as Kathryn, Kathy, Kat, Affy and Yaya, she was surrounded by her children, family and friends during her final moments. After a courageous battle with cancer, Kathryn passed away leaving behind a remarkable legacy of love, creativity, family devotion and kindness.
Kathryn Allette Lee Haynes’ Early Life
Kathryn was born in Mobile, Alabama, on June 5, 1967, to the late Allie Lee and Annette “Nonnie” Weekley. She graduated from Theodore High School in 1986.
In 1987, Kathryn met and married James Cole Sr. of Foley, Alabama. The couple later moved to Auburn to attend Auburn University before settling in Foley, where they welcomed their two children, James “Bo” Cole Jr. and Amanda Susan Cole.
Following the death of her first husband in 2005, Kathryn raised their two children as a single mother and continued moving forward despite the challenges she faced.
In 2013, she met Jonathan Scott Haynes, whom she later married. The couple initially settled in Grand Bay before relocating to Auburn because of Scott’s work. Auburn remained especially meaningful to Kathryn because of the many memories she associated with the community.
A Woman With Many Talents
Kathryn had a remarkable creative spirit and an ability to find beauty in everyday life. Her artistic talents extended across numerous forms of craftsmanship, including woodworking, leatherwork, sewing, painting, sculpting and holiday decorating.
She was especially dedicated to her children and became actively involved in their school activities and organizations. She led Cub Scout dens, participated in church youth groups, served as a classroom sponsor and supported student council activities.
Kathryn also made clothing for the children and continued pursuing her crafts and hobbies right up until the end of her life.
Kathryn’s Love for Family and Children
Although Kathryn held various occupations during her life, including teaching, interior decorating and physical therapy, her family remembered her roles as a mother, grandmother and wife as the ones she cherished most.
Christmas was her favorite holiday, particularly because she loved giving rather than receiving. She took great joy in watching children experience the happiness of opening gifts.
She was also known for her willingness to listen and teach, qualities that endeared her to many children and adults throughout her life.
Kathryn had a deep love of reading and built an extensive collection of books and videos. She was constantly interested in learning new things and was known within her family as an exceptionally skilled investigator who could seemingly uncover information about almost anyone.
A Passionate Auburn Tigers Fan
Kathryn was a lifelong supporter of the Auburn Tigers, a passion that occasionally created a friendly rivalry with her husband, Scott, whenever Auburn faced Alabama.
The couple could agree on one sporting interest, however – their granddaughter’s softball teams. When Kathryn attended the games, her enthusiastic voice could often be heard above the crowd as she cheered, “GO GIRLS GO.”
Kathryn’s Courageous Cancer Journey
Kathryn was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2021. She fought the disease and was able to overcome it in 2023.
The following year, she was diagnosed with cancer again after the disease had spread to her abdomen. Her treatment options were limited, but Kathryn continued to face the illness with extraordinary courage.
She ultimately succumbed to cancer on August 29, 2026.
Her family described her final years as a testament to her determination. Kathryn continued to stretch every moment she had, living each day with the same strength and spirit that defined her life.
Family Mourns Kathryn Haynes
Kathryn is survived by her children, James Cole Jr. of Foley, Alabama, and Amanda Susan Cole of Auburn, Alabama, and her granddaughter, Addison Naomi Cole of Auburn.
She is also survived by her father, Steven Lansing, and her husband, Jonathan Scott Haynes.
Her siblings include Steven Wright and Rebecca, Glen Wright and Susan, Cindy Maxwell and Victor, and Doug Wright and Martha. She is also survived by her uncles, Mike Weekley and Mary, and Charley Weekley and Mary, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Kathryn was preceded in death by her parents, Annette Weekley Lansing and Alley Lee; her brothers Freddie Hinote and Steven Grimes; her nephews Shawn and Billy; and her first husband, James Cole Sr.
Friends Who Were Like Family
Kathryn also wanted special recognition given to people she considered as close as family.
Among them were the Bordano family – Tony, Amber, Lyss and Mia; the Longstreth family – Wade, Lesley and Savannah; and her longtime friends and Yayas, including Diana Hortmer, Andrea Miller, Suzan Patrick, Michael Christen and Caroline “Bink” Cox, along with many others who held a special place in her heart.
Kathryn Haynes Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Life for Kathryn will be held on Saturday, September 12, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home, 1801 Frederick Rd., Opelika, Alabama 36801.
Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Remembering Kathryn Allette Lee Haynes
Kathryn’s family remembers her as much more than the roles she held as a daughter, sister, wife, mother and grandmother. She was described as a force of nature whose smile, open-mindedness, willingness to listen and ability to engage others in deep conversations left a lasting impression.
Even in the face of cancer, she continued to fight with remarkable bravery and determination.
Kathryn’s final wish was that those she loved would not cry simply because she had left this world, but instead celebrate the next chapter of her journey and hold on to the belief that they would meet again.
She wanted everyone who mattered to her to know that she loved them deeply and unconditionally.
Kathryn Allette Lee Haynes will be profoundly missed by her family, friends and everyone whose life she touched. Her creativity, generosity, humor, courage and unconditional love will remain part of the legacy she leaves behind.
May Kathryn rest in peace.