A Tribute to Kate McNeil (1979-2022)

Yesterday, as I celebrated her birthday, and my honor of sharing another year of life with such a vibrant soul, I received a phone call telling me that my dear friend, Kate McNeil, had passed away. The world has lost a bright light of kindness and creativity.  I am devastated. 

I cannot imagine what the world will be like without her bright smile, her snarky wit, and her empathetic heart.  I cannot imagine what the world will be like without her gentle voice, her strong tender hugs that easily transferred the weight of my world onto her broad, compassionate shoulders.  I cannot imagine what the world will be like without her ingenious storytelling, her effervescent commitment to help others, her sparkling eyes, and lyrical giggle.

Kate was my literary sister, sanity saver, keeper of my secrets, and protector of my tears.  She was the good swift kick in the butt I often needed.  Always generous with her time, she was my story arc brainstorming buddy, my social media instructor, my cheerleader for every accomplishment, no matter how large or small.  Kate never underestimated my work, encouraging me ever forward toward the next risk-taking, fear-breaking wall of opportunity.  She lent me her relentless strength in moments when I couldn’t find my own with a joyful heart and a seemingly endless supply of kindness.  She was simply, easily, genuinely nice.

Kate was a spectacular author.  She crafted wonderful books filled with adventure, strength, and snark.  I will miss traveling through her imagination, following her characters as they discovered plots, fell in love, outwitted villains, created deep friendship bonds, and surprised with hidden talents.  I will miss the devious smile when I asked about her connections to the Secret Service and hearing her gleeful reply; “I cannot confirm nor deny.”   

I take a small bit of comfort in knowing that whenever I miss her, I can still caress the pages and inhale the words she left behind.  I know my dear friend Kate well.  I know she is at peace, surrounded by the infinite love she gave so generously to others.  And knowing her, she’s probably in a corner of creation somewhere, teaching someone something.

​Katherine “Kate” Amby Wallace McNeil

Author, Teacher, Wife, Daughter, Sister, Friend

July 13, 1979 – July 13, 2022