Kathleen Lynn Rish, age 73, passed away on December 27, 2025, at Geisinger Community Medical Center, following complications from a devastating car accident in October. She was born in Callicoon, NY and was a long-time resident of Beach Lake, PA. Kathleen lived a life rooted in faith, family and service to others.

Kathleen—known lovingly as Kathy—began her career as a hair stylist at just 18 years old. Her beauty salon became a cherished staple in the community for decades, a place where friendships were formed and lives were touched far beyond the styling chair.

Kathy’s faith was central to her life. She was deeply active in her church and had a special passion for prison ministry, faithfully bringing the Word of God to inmates in jails and prisons both local and in other states. She loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and lived her life as a reflection of that love.

Above all else, Kathy cherished her family. She delighted in family gatherings and togetherness, always finding joy in being surrounded by those she loved.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Doris Cortese; her father, John Cortese; her brother, Danny Cortese; and her first husband, Philip Cole.
Kathy is survived by her devoted husband, Ed Rish; her daughters, Jody Arrington and Valerie Cole; her grandchildren: Chyenne Hernandez, Cole Lamberton, Daisy LeBlond, Malachi LeBlond and Scarlet Leblond; and her great-grandchildren: Micah, Layla, Kia, Noa and Beau Hernandez. She is also survived by her siblings: Rick Cortese and his wife Beth, Luanne Cole and husband Donnie, Wendy Samson, and Gail Fasshauer and husband Tom; her sisters-in-law Rose Miller and MarySue Rish; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends.

Kathy had a special relationship with her niece Christie Langone and her husband Carmine. The family is grateful for their tireless devotion, long hours and unwavering support in caring for both Kathy and Ed during the difficult and exhausting days at the hospital following the accident. Their compassion, faith and commitment to serving others and the Lord exemplify the true meaning of biblical service, and stand as a living testament to the values Kathy lived by and held dear.

Kathy’s legacy of faith, compassion and unwavering love will live on in the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and joyfully remembered.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 3 at the White Mills Community Church, 17 Church St., Hawley, PA, at noon. Friends can visit at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Arrangements by Hessling Murray Funeral Home in Honesdale.

Memorial contributions can be made to Grace Prison Ministries, PO Box 141, Brewster, WA 98812, or online at www.graceprisons.org/index.php?proc=fin.