Kathy Linder VanMeter
Kathy Linder VanMeter, 71, of Lumberton, died Tuesday, February 24, 2026. She was born on July 3, 1954, to Barbara Ewing Linder and Theodore Linder, in Austin.
Kathy lived a life defined by warmth and a deep devotion to the people she loved most.
From an early age, Kathy stood out! Her distinctive white streak was her trademark. Though she once tried to hide it, she eventually grew to love and embrace it. Kathy attended Fehl Elementary and MacArthur and Marshall Junior High. At Forest Park High School, she was voted Miss Forest Park, a reflection not only of her beauty but of her vibrant spirit and kindness. She was also elected class President both her Junior and Senior years, earning the admiration and respect of her classmates. At graduation, she delivered the commencement speech — a fitting role for someone who inspired others so naturally.
Kathy met her husband Gene at a young age, their paths crossing early in life. Though they shared those early connections, it wasn’t until later that their friendship grew into a deep and lasting love. Their relationship became a beautiful reminder that some love stories unfold in their own perfect time. Together, Kathy and Gene built a life marked by devotion, laughter, and enduring partnership.
Kathy built a remarkable career at GulfCo, where she began as a secretary and retired 38 years later as Director of Human Resources. Over the years, the guys in the shop affectionately referred to her as “Mama GulfCo,” a testament to the guidance, compassion, and support she provided to generations of employees. She believed in people, advocated for them, and treated colleagues like family.
Outside of her career, Kathy had a love of reading, cooking, watching her stories, enjoying Judge Judy, Lifetime/Hallmark movies and always playing Candy Crush. She was an amazing listener, offering her full attention to anyone who needed it. Above all else, Kathy was devoted to her children and grandchildren, who were her greatest joy. Her closest companion was her loyal dog, Paris, who was with her always.
Kathy will be remembered for her empathy, grace, and boundless love. Her legacy lives on in the family she adored, the colleagues she mentored, and the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and loved forever.
Survivors include her husband of more than 26 years, Gene A. VanMeter, Jr.; children, Angela Smith and her husband, Kevin, Robert Hardy III, and Hayley VanMeter and her fiancé, Chase Burkhalter; grandchildren, Hayden Smith, Hudson Smith, Holden Smith, Ava Troutman, and Brody Troutman; siblings, Karen Brashear, Keith Linder, and Kay Hidalgo; and her beloved dog and companion, Paris; mother, Barbara Linder.
She is preceded in death by her father, Theodore Linder and brothers-in-law, Clif Brashear and Mark Hidalgo.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Southeast Texas, 2050 Spindletop Avenue, Beaumont, Texas 77705.
A gathering of Mrs. VanMeter’s family and friends will begin at 12:30 p.m. with her funeral service at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, March 1, 2026, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. Her interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Beaumont.
Video
Gathering of Family and Friends
Broussard’s Mortuary Major Dr.
- 1605, North Major Drive, Beaumont, Texas, 77713,
- March 1, 2026
- 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Funeral Service
Broussard’s Mortuary Major Dr.
- 1605, North Major Drive, Beaumont, Texas, 77713,
- March 1, 2026
- 2:30 pm
Interment
Forest Lawn Memorial Park
- 4955, Pine St, Beaumont, TX, 77703,
- March 1, 2026
Gene, Angela and all of Kathy’s family and friends I am so sorry for your loss. I always felt like part of the family. Kathy was so warm and fun! It makes me smile to think of the times we enjoyed watching “the boys” or hunting Easter Eggs at her house. A Hui Ho, Kathy…until we meet again. 🙏🏻❤️ Love the Durans (Carole Carlos and Chance)
I’m so sorry for the loss of Kathy. I worked
With her at Gulfco for many, many
Years. Sending prayers for her family that she
Loved so much!
My deepest sympathy on Kathy’s passing very sweet and kind woman
Gene, we are so terribly sorry to hear of the loss of your precious Kathy. You and your family are in our prayers for comfort during this difficult time. God bless you all.
Gene i am so sorry about your wife,she was a lovely person.mt thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.please feel free to contact me if you need anything.love you darlene hall
Gene my friend I am so sorry to hear of Kathy’s passing. I pray that God’s peace will carry you and your family in this time of grief. God Bless you my friend!
My condolences to Gene and the entire Linder family. Have know Kathy for over 50 years and always enjoyed nights at the Linder house playing cards or whatever.
Kathy was so nice and friendly even to “little Eddie”.
Rest in peace my friend.
To Kay, Karen and Keith, i’m so sorry to hear of your sister’s passing. My thoughts and prayers to you all at this difficult time.
Mary Hopper Raiford
Gene I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful wife. Heavenly Father I pray you wrap Gene and his family in your light. Please grant them comfort and peace during thier time of sorrow and always. Remind the family this separation is only for a little while because we will meet again in your Heavenly Kingdom…. I pray in Jesus’s name, your only son, our Lord forever and ever
Amen and Amen.
Lee & Gina Acevedo
Dear Gene,
My heart is broken for you as I read this beautiful obituary describing your sweet wife, Kathy. What a warm & wonderful way to be remembered, & to be loved by so many. While we know this time comes for all of us, we are still somehow never prepared. I am praying for you my dear, dear friend & for all those who loved her so.
Love,
Pat Goth Bowling
Gene, we are so sorry for your loss. Kathy reached out to me via Facebook about 6 weeks ago and said things were great. I have fond memories of us choosing tile and flooring after Hurricane Harvey and the hardships of trying to get it done. Hope this finds you well. We will be praying for you.
Although we have not seen Kathy in years we send prayers to her hubby and family at this time of loss! Praying for God’s comfort at this time!
Love, Aunt Claire Jean and Cindy!
Gene,
I’m so sorry to learn of Kathy’s passing. You and your family will be in my prayers.
Kathy was a friend in high school and had a long time work friendship. She will be missed .
I am so sorry for you and your family’s loss of your wife Kathy. I am praying for you and the family. We all love you Gene
Gene, I am so sorry to hear of your beloved Kathy. Although I didn’t have the privilege of knowing her well, she was always such a sweet and friendly girl in school and yes, at least for me, that beautiful white streak of hair, made her stand out in a unique way.
You, your family and friends are in my prayers for God’s peace and comfort through these difficult times ahead. God bless you all.
I’m so sorry to hear about Kathy’s passing. She was so precious and kind. I always loved being with her at our SPHS reunions. She and Gene are two of the nicest people I’ve ever met. Praying for all of your family 🙏
I’m so sorry to hear about Kathy’s passing. She was so precious and kind. I always loved being with her at our SPHS reunions. She and Gene are two of the nicest people I’ve ever met. Praying for all of your family 🙏
Robbie and Angela, I am so sorry to hear about your wonderful Mom! Kathy was an amazing person who was always full of fun, love and laughter. I am sending prayers and remember you have so many lasting memories! If you ever need anything please let me know!
Always, Terry
Kay, I’m so sorry to read of the loss of your sister. God bless you and your family at this very difficult time.
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Kathy, prayers of peace, comfort and strength going out to Gene, the family and friends. Asking God to cover this family with love and his wisdom, and fill your hearts full of wonderful, loving memories. We are here if you need anything.
Gene, We are terribly sorry for your loss. We so enjoyed our visits with Kathy. She was a wonderful lady. You and your family will be in our prayers!
Very sorry to hear of Kathy’s passing. We went to high school together at Forest Park and graduated in 1972. I remember Kathy being very friendly and she was active in student council and many things like that. Sending my thoughts and prayers to Kathy’s family.