Katherine Diane Shyne, aƯectionately known as “Ann” or “Ms. Shyne,” was born on January 14, 1959, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Shellie Pickens and Dorothy Lee Shyne. She was lovingly raised by Dorothy Pickens, who held a special and meaningful place in her life and played an important role in shaping the woman she would become.

Katherine received her education through the Kansas City, Missouri Public School System and proudly graduated from Central High School in 1977.

Katherine was a woman whose presence could never be overlooked. She possessed a vibrant and infectious personality that naturally drew people to her. She was deeply loved by her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her. Katherine was truly one of a kind—unapologetically herself, wonderfully blunt, and never afraid to speak her mind. She lived life on her own and never concerned herself with conforming to anyone else’s expectations of who she should be. She was simply “Ann” or “Ms. Shyne,” and she embraced every part of who she was.

At the heart of Katherine’s life was her family. Being a mother was one of the greatest purposes and blessings of her life. She dedicated herself to making certain that her children were loved, cared for, and provided for to the very best of her ability. She did what she could with what she had, always striving to put the needs and well-being of her children first. No matter what challenges life placed before her, her children remained at the center of her heart and were among her greatest treasures.

Katherine departed this life peacefully on August 2, 2026, at University Health Truman Medical Center. She was preceded in death by her parents Shellie & Dorothy Pickens, Dorothy Shyne; her beloved son, Cortez Shyne; and her brothers, Gregory, Wyn, and Joe Shyne.

Katherine leaves to cherish her precious memory and continue her legacy of love: two sons, Christopher Shyne (Denitricia) and Carlos Shyne (TeLae); two daughters, Crystal Shyne and Tamiko Shyne (Michael), all of Kansas City, Missouri; two sisters, Wanda Hawkins of Minden, Louisiana, and Juanita Bossell of Kansas City, Missouri; twelve grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Though Katherine’s earthly journey has come to an end, the love she gave, the lives she touched, the laughter she shared, and the memories she created will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her legacy will live on through her children, grandchildren, family, and all who were fortunate enough to call her “Mom,” “Grandma,” “Ann,” “Ms. Shyne,” or simply “friend.”

A service will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Oak Grove MBC, 4545 Benton Blvd. KCMO. The visitation will be held from 9:00-11:00 am, with the service to follow promptly at 11:00 am.