Kathy Mei Ying Wong (maiden name, Hui), lovingly known as Grandma, passed away peacefully in Southern California on March 25, 2026. Born on November 20, 1949, in China, Kathy’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, dedication, and a deep passion for music and education.

Kathy’s journey to America in the 1970s was marked by her unwavering commitment to building a meaningful life. She pursued higher education with spirited determination, graduating from the University of Missouri in Kansas City with a major in the Music Arts. Around this time, she married, had a child and relocated to California. Though her heart belonged to music, the practicalities of life in California, especially as a mother, led her to further her education in teaching—a path where she truly flourished. Kathy’s career was distinguished and inspiring: beginning as a teacher in the Alhambra School District, advancing to the principalship of Commodore Sloat Elementary School in San Francisco, and later serving as a prestigious University Supervisor at Cal State LA even after her retirement. Her dedication to nurturing young minds showcased both her passion and her kindness.

Those who knew Kathy were profoundly touched by her warmth and her unshakeable devotion to family. Her son, Eugene, her daughter-in-law, Cynthia, and her three adored grandchildren—Cameron, Monet, and Violet—were the center of her world. Kathy’s close bonds extended to her younger sister Amy, her brother Enoch, and her sister-in-law Ella. She also had a profound love and respect for her extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins residing in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Kathy’s love for music was more than just a hobby; it was a defining thread in her existence. An accomplished pianist from the tender age of seven, she once played a piano recital while pregnant with Eugene—an enduring testament to her devotion to music and her family. This love was evident in her daily life and in the joy she found playing piano and spending precious moments with her grandchildren.

Her faith was equally significant. Kathy devoted many years to her church, serving not only as a member of the leadership team but also as its Treasurer, exemplifying her trustworthiness and devotion. One of her crowning accomplishments was organizing and leading the Harp & Bow Music Ministry. This ministry’s mission to inspire students to praise and worship through music was a testament to Kathy’s belief in the power of music as a bridge to spiritual expression and community building.

Her funeral services will be held at Forest Lawn - Covina Hills. The Memorial service will take place in the Church of Our Heritage on April 16, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, followed by a Burial service on April 17, 2026, from 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM at the same location, 21300 Via Verde Drive, Covina, California.

Kathy Wong’s legacy is one of relentless drive, boundless love, and a beautiful harmony of music and faith. She touched the lives of many—her family, her students, her colleagues, and her church community—with a kindness and dedication that will forever resonate in their hearts. Her life reminds us that true success is measured not only by accomplishments but by the love and inspiration we leave behind. Kathy’s music may have quieted, but her song will forever echo in the lives she so tenderly nurtured.

In lieu of flowers, it was Kathy’s wish for donations to be made to The ALS Association and/or EvenUs Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that does music education and production for Jesus Christ.