Kathleen “Kitty” Marie (Hamilton) Bryan

Kathleen “Kitty” Marie Hamilton Bryan was born September 8, 1940, in Pine Ridge, SD. She went to her true home to be with her Lord and Savior on April 4, 2026, in Rapid City, SD, at the age of 85. Her first day in heaven was Easter Sunday. “Jesus said to them, ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled… In my Father’s house are many rooms… I am going there to prepare a place for you.’” — John 14:1–2

Kitty was raised east of Oelrichs, SD, on her family’s ranch, born to Bud and Josephine Hamilton. Her childhood was spent in the country with her sister, two brothers, and many cousins. She attended country school, then on to Oelrichs High School and attended Holy Rosary in Pine Ridge for a short time.

Kitty met and married Russell Eichenberger after high school. From this union, her two sons were born—Rick and Michael. After 13 years of marriage, they separated, and Kitty went on many adventures, with her travels taking her through Nebraska, Kansas, New Mexico, Wyoming, and Montana, before returning to her home state of South Dakota.

She worked in many roles throughout her life, including waitress, police dispatcher, bank teller, insurance agent, and construction contractor secretary. She had an unwavering love for Christ and found a church home wherever she lived, making lasting friendships.

Kitty’s greatest joys were her children, grandchildren, and family. She especially adored little children and she delighted in laughter with family and friends. She also had a special fondness for her dachshunds, if all dogs go to heaven, there was a great reunion with her beloved pets.

Kitty was preceded in death by her parents; her sister Charlotte (“Dolly”) Bowker; brothers Lindon (“Jumbo”) Hamilton and Randy Hamilton; and her grandson, Shaye Melton.

She is survived by her sons, Rick (Lisa) Eichenberger and Michael (Regina) Eichenberger; sister-in-laws, Leni Hamilton and Susan Hamilton; grandchildren Nikki Loyd, Macie Wiles, Megan (Tim) Dow, Kimberly (Garrett) Pape, William (Ashton) Eichenberger; fifteen great grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Scripture of comfort:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” — Psalm 23:1

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death.” — Revelation 21:4

Celebration of Kitty’s life will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Living Outreach Church in Custer, SD.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Living Outreach Church, Custer, SD or to a charity of your choice.