Kathryn Elizabeth, 83, of Ft. Lauderdale died Monday at Holy Cross Hospital. The cause of death was complications surrounding lung cancer. Kathy was born in Gary, IN on June 7, 1928, to Pauline and Thomas George. Both parents were from Albania and Pauline was a "photo bride". Kathy was affectionately known as "Baby" and was welcomed by her two step-brothers, Tom and Joseph. She graduated from Emerson High School where she began a lifelong interest in reading. She first fell in love with Roger P. Sullivan, an ex-paratrooper. Marrying him in 1947, the young couple had two sons while living in Gary. A separation led Kathy and boys to her mother's home which Pauline now shared with her second family after Thomas' death. Living at close quarters, Kathy entered the work force and worked various office positions, most notably for E.F. MacDonald Travel where she worked as a trip coordinator. This position allowed her to widely travel the United States and several European destinations. Her favorite spot was an early Las Vegas, which had "class, baby". Kathy adored the Vegas scene which she said was very "Madmen" like. In thriving Gary, Kathy frequented the local dinner clubs like Jackson's and Hunky Hollow. In Chicago, it was Greektown and Chez Paree. Her musical tastes leaned towards jazzy torch singers and rhythm and blues. Above all others, there was old blue eyes - Frank Sinatra - who she met while in her teens. She would often say Frank was there at every milestone in her life. Kathy was a tireless card player, enjoying Texas Hold-em as well as Rummy. It was the playing that mattered but the winning she enjoyed. In her quieter moments she was a crossword aficionado. Her life as a young divorcee soon ended when she was introduced by a friend to Max Bayles. Also single with two sons, the charming salesman swept Kathy off her feet. They married in 1963 and the new family settled in Chicago's Rogers Park. The boys needed to make room for a series of bichon frise dogs, the last being the beloved Cleo. Max and Kathy moved to Ft. Lauderdale in 1972 first living on the Intercoastal and later in the Bermuda Riviera neighborhood. Kathy flirted with a boating hobby, cultivated new friendships, and supported Max in his many ventures until his death in 2006. Kathy is survived by her four children, Roger and Matthew Sullivan and Charles and Bradley Bayles; 11 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren, and her sister, Carolyn Handzel, who cared for her in her declining years. On her request, she will be cremated and her ashes with those of Max will be released into the ocean. The family is planning a memorial gathering in April.

Published by Sun-Sentinel from Mar. 31 to Apr. 1, 2012.