Kathryn Ann Schwartz

CARBONDALE - Kathryn Ann Schwartz, a beloved mother, grandmother, and respected member of the community, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 28, 2026, surrounded by her family, at the age of 89. Born on September 1, 1936, in Mc Clure, Illinois, Kathryn spent her life raising her family and being a successful real estate broker, leaving behind a legacy of love and achievement.

Kathryn married Thomas Schwartz and he preceded her in death on September 11, 1990. She later married Ben Balsano in 1997 and he preceded her in death on March 12, 2025.

She is survived by her daughter, Patricia Yanuzzi and husband Francis; her son, Andrew Schwartz; and her cherished grandchildren, Sophia and her husband, Derrick, and Dominick and his wife Olivia; and great-grandchildren Emeric, Margot, and Audrianna, all of whom she adored deeply.

Kathryn was a proud graduate, holding two Bachelor's Degree from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, which paved the way for her to build a thriving career in real estate. She took great pride in her work, owning her own brokerage firm and guiding countless families through the journey of finding their homes. Her professional accomplishments were matched only by her devotion to her family.

An avid lover of sports and the outdoors, Kathryn was particularly passionate about tennis and played on the Community College Nationals team at the age of 40. She enjoyed canoeing on the Current River and hiking in Colorado, embodying the spirit of adventure throughout her life. Kathryn and her husband, Tom, shared many unforgettable travels during his time in the Army, exploring new horizons on a modest budget of five dollars a day. In later years, Ben and Kathryn traveled to exotic destinations including Egypt, Thailand, China, and Australia.

Kathryn was a pillar of strength and faith, actively participating in the First United Methodist Church in Carbondale, where she touched the lives of many with her kindness and compassion. She will be remembered for her warmth, zest for life, and the pride she took in her family's accomplishments.

A graveside service for Kathryn will be held on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Oakland Cemetery with Rev. Jim Barnett officiating. Following the service, a Remembrance Celebration of Kathryn's remarkable life will take place at the Jackson County Country Club; 5776 Country Club Rd in Murphysboro, from 1:00pm until 3:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of the donor's choice.

Kathryn was preceded in death by her parents, Glen and Sybil Hooker; and husbands, Thomas Schwartz and Ben Balsano.

Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale is in charge of arrangements. To leave a story or memory of Kathryn visit www.meredithfh.com