RIO LINDA, CA – Our community shares in the sorrow of learning that Kathleen “Kathy” Elizabeth McManus Scherer passed away on May 2, 2025, in Fayette, Missouri, at the age of 75. While she had moved away, many here in Rio Linda remember Kathy fondly for her immense heart and unwavering dedication to our local youth, especially within the Rio Linda Falcons football program.
Born May 18, 1949, in Seattle, Washington, Kathy later married Ronald “Ron” Scherer in 1967 (Ron passed away in 2007). Many locals knew her during the years her family was active in our community. Kathy was the quintessential “sports mom” long before the term was common. She was a passionate supporter of the Rio Linda Falcons and countless other youth activities, always there with encouragement and spirit.
More than just a fan, Kathy was known for having a door that was always open. She acted as a foster mom and a source of love and support “to any and all kids needing a mom in their life,” including many right here in Rio Linda. Her generosity and willingness to help left a lasting impression on numerous families.
Beyond her deep involvement in youth sports, Kathy worked for the Army Corps of Engineers before retiring. She loved watching NASCAR, enjoyed listening to George Strait, and later served her community in Missouri as a member of the Versailles Lions Club.
Kathy’s legacy of love continues through her family: daughter, Michelle Blake and husband, Oscar; sons, Dennis Scherer and wife, Crystal, and Shawn Scherer and wife, Tina; grandchildren, Sydney, Madison, Zachary, Dennis Michael (wife, Adirany), Tyler Scherer, Kristina Blake, Melissa Volmert (Dylan), and Patricia Blake; great-grandchildren, Karoline Simms and Dean Scherer; niece, Angela McManus; nephew, William “Billy” McManus (wife, Melissa); great-nieces, Eliscia and Lexie Ganem, and Jessica and Sophia McManus; and her loyal canine companion, Bella. She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Ron, and her brother, William McManus.
The family will honor Kathy’s memory with an old-fashioned Irish Wake at a date to be announced later.
For those wishing to make a gesture in her memory, memorial contributions are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Fayette PAWS Program, in lieu of flowers.
Kathy Scherer’s spirit of generosity and dedication, especially towards the youth of Rio Linda, will be remembered by all who knew her here. She will be missed.
