Kathleen Dorothy Olive Scotland November 5, 1926 - February 7, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Kathleen Dorothy Olive Scotland on February 7th, 2024. She was 98 years old. Our beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend - she will be greatly missed and remembered.

Kathleeen is survived by her younger brother, William Thomas Little, and two sons: Bruce Gunter and Ian Andrew, six grandchildren: Conor, Erinn, Anne-Claire, Aimee, Maeve, Jane, and two great-grandchildren: Mary and Emmett, all of whom she will be lovingly remembered by.

She was predeceased by her loving husband of 38 years, William Brian, her son William Peter, and grandson Brennan - with whom she is now reunited.

Kathleen Dorothy Olive Little, daughter of Florence Anderson and William Thomas Little, was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland on November 5, 1926. Kathleen was raised during the Second World War and would often regale her grandchildren with stories about huddling under the kitchen table while her father distributed spoonfuls of brandy during the bombing raids, ration cards and more. Kathleen's father died due to his injuries incurred during his time as a soldier during World War I. Shortly thereafter, at the tender age of nine, Kathleen was sent to the Masonic Girls' School in Ireland which was both a difficult, yet formative part of her life. There Kathleen excelled in voice and music, developing a lifelong passion for singing. Kathleen married William Brian Scotland on January 25th, 1949 in Bangor, Northern Ireland. Kathleeen and Brian had two sons born in Ireland: Bruce Gunter and William Peter (deceased). Thirteen years later while living in Skaneateles, NY they had their third son, Ian Andrew.

Kathleen and Brian emigrated to Calgary, Alberta in 1955. They moved several times throughout Canada and the USA, living in London, Ontario, Skaneateles, New York, Milwaukee, WI and finally, York, PA. In 1980, Kathleen founded an antiques resale business with her cousin, Lyn Merryweather. They purchased antiques from yard sales, thrift shops, flea-markets and more, then resold them at the Pillar and Post Inn located in Niagara-on the-Lake, Ontario.

Brian passed away in 1987, but Kathleen stayed in York and continued her involvement with PEO, church choir and visits with her grandchildren. In 1998, Kathleen married Dr. Robert D. MacDougall (Bob). Bob passed in 2014 and Kathleen promptly moved to CT to be closer to family. Eventually, she resided in Clinton, CT and spent as much time with her family as possible.

Kathleen lit up every room with her love, laughter and statement eyewear. She had an innate sense of beautiful objects and continued her love of treasure hunting in every town she visited or lived. Her home was always filled with gorgeous and unique items that she had sourced. She was a devoted grandmother and never missed an opportunity to spoil her grandchildren with endless candy and elaborate meals with two kinds of potatoes. She found great joy in gift giving, always discovering and buying thoughtful things for everyone she loved. The Queen of Christmas, Kathleen shared joy, love and presents with everyone around her. Even after many decades in the US, she never lost her Irish roots - cooking delicious meals and roasts, and never missing an opportunity to share a cup of tea.

A celebration of life will be held on February 28th, 2025 at 2:00pm at St. Andrew's Church in Madison, CT. All are welcome to remember her long and beautiful life with us.

The family wishes to say a special thank you to Marlene, Kathleen's caregiver for the past year. Marlene's devotion, love, and excellent care were unparalleled - even on the most challenging days.