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Kathryn Frost Obituary

FROST, Kathryn LATTA - Major General (Ret.) Kathryn George Frost, 57, of Latta, S.C., died August 18, following a four year battle with breast cancer. At the time of her retirement in April of 2005, Frost was the senior woman on active duty in the U.S. Army. A native of Dillon County, S.C., Frost grew up in Latta where she was valedictorian of her Latta High School class in 1967. She was a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of South Carolina in 1970 and later earned a Masters in Counseling degree from Wayne State University in Michigan while on active duty in the Army. Frost entered the Army with a direct commission in 1974 and served with great distinction for the next 31 years. Her final assignment was a Commander of the Army and Air Force Exchange Services (AAFES), an $8 billion retail entity with 48,000 employees worldwide. As Commander of AAFES, she was responsible for establishing post exchanges (PX's) and base exchanges (BX's) in both Afghanistan and Iraq. Under her leadership, AAFES received a special award from the National Retail Federation for its work in these two war zones. Prior to serving as commander of AAFES, Frost served four years as the Adjutant General of the Army and as Commander of the Eastern Sector of the Military Entrance Processing Command. Her other assignments included two tours in Berlin, Germany, work on the staff of General Colin Powell when he was Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and assignment as a White House Social Aide during the Reagan and first Bush presidencies. Frost excelled at everything she attempted. She was first in her WAC basic course and first in her WAC advanced training course. The WACs (Women's Army Corps) were merged in the regular Army a year after Frost entered active duty. She was recognized as "South Carolina Women of Distinction" at the 2005 Miss South Carolina Pageant, a proud moment for Frost who had been runner-up for "Miss Latta" as a teenager. She met her husband, former U.S. Congressman Martin Frost (D-TX), when she was assigned to his district in 1996 as Deputy Commander of AAFES, which is headquartered in Dallas, Texas. They were married in August 1998 in the prayer room of the U.S. Capital Building in Washington, D.C., in a ceremony presiding over by the Chaplain of the U.S. House of Representatives. Frost and her husband moved back to Latta earlier this summer when they purchased the house where she grew up. She was a member of Latta United Methodist Church. Frost is survived by her husband, Martin, her sister, Gwen Strickland, her brother-in-law, Frank Strickland, and her nephew, George Strickland, all of Marion, three step-daughters, Alanna Bach of El Paso, Texas, Mariel Sala of Fort Worth, Texas, and Camille Frost of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and three step-granddaughters, Helaine, Simona and Esther Bach all of El Paso and numerous cousins. Burial will be in Arlington National Cemetery following a funeral service at the Latta United Methodist Church, directed by RICHARDSON FUNERAL HOME OF MARION. The family requests that expressions of sympathy be made in the form of contributions to the Latta United Methodist Church, 102 N. Church Street, Latta, SC 29565, Latta High School, 618 N. Richardson Street, Latta, SC 29656, University of South Carolina, 1600 Hampton St. #736 Columbia, SC 29208, or to the Veterans Defense Fund in Latta, SC. Visit our guestbook at www.charleston.net/deaths.

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Published by Charleston Post & Courier on Aug. 19, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Kathryn Frost

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Nan Nease Norman

August 19, 2022

Kathy was my roommate our Freshman year at the University of South Carolina. She was a delight to be around and her discipline was contagious. We traveled to her home in Latta and I experienced the Southern hospitality of her friends and family. Kathy (as I called her) is a treasured memory.

Kathy Barnes

June 27, 2007

Dear Martin, I don't know why it has taken me so long to express what your beautiful wife, Kathy Frost, meant to me. I got the chance to know her when I became her temporary XO in 2000 - a 2 week stint which turned into 6 weeks where I gained a lifelong mentor and friend. What I remember most about your beautiful wife is how she made me feel so special and appreciated. Even after I returned to my primary duties, she would stop down to say "Hi." As the host for my retirement ceremony, her words made me seem like a superstar - she had that way about her. When I learned she was fighting breast cancer, I was devastated. We corresponded over the next few years but Kathy never complained nor even mentioned her illness. After rediscovering her at Harvard where you were teaching, I was thrilled! Little did I know that she was still fighting the cancer that claimed her when she was still so young and had so much to give all of us... I first learned about Kathy's passing in the Erie, PA newspaper while home on leave - having her obituary in the Erie paper is yet another testimony to her lasting impact and myriad of achievements as one of the most senior female leaders our Army had in its ranks. When I remember Kathy Frost, it was how she gave me confidence in myself and my abilities - something I will always carry with me. She was a brilliant, beautiful, and caring human being who will not soon be forgotten.

JOHNNY JOHNSON

September 21, 2006

Major General Frost was truly a sweet person, always taking the time out to walk around the AHRC Office to speak to the employees. She knew everyone by their names. She was a person first and a General last. She never flaunted her rank, authority or power. She was truly what every christian should strive to be. If any of us are blessd enough to get to Heaven, Be sure to call her name and she will answer because she will remember yours.

Kathy Wiggins

September 5, 2006

We are proud to have known such a remarkable officer and lady! Gwen, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless.

Nan Norman

September 4, 2006

I was saddened to hear of the passing of my University of South Carolina freshman roommate, 'Kathy George'. I am so blessed to have witnessed the inception of her seeds of greatness. Her influence on me was life-changing and my many memories are of her gentle spirit, determination,consistency and patience. May my young friend 'Kathy' rest in peace, job so well done.

Al Chong

August 28, 2006

Our deepest sympathy to the family of MG Kathy Frost. We will miss her at our White House Military Aides Assn Events. I had the pleasure of seeing her at our last event this past Spring at the University Club in DC. She came to me to say hello before she departed with her husband...

Eugene DuCom

August 27, 2006

I served 38 years in the Navy and had the pleasure of serving the last three under MGEN Frost. I served for no finer commander. Taking care of service men and women was the most important thing to her. She always wanted to find a way to say yes when a request came her way. When she entered the room her energy and positive attitude filled the space and mades us all want to try a little harder. She brought out the best in her all that had the pleasure to serve with her. I will always hold her dear and when I have a decision to make along life's journey I will ask myself, what would Kathy do.

August 25, 2006

We at Scholastic were saddened to hear about the loss of Major General Kathy

Frost. A few years ago, we had the honor to work with her on a charming

story for children about a World War II Army dog named Snitch. The story,

which was published in special Memorial Day issues, reached millions of

children in our Scholastic classroom magazines.



Major General Frost was dedicated to sharing this story, which was told to

her by Bruce Lane at a ceremony for the War Memorial in Blooming Grove,

Texas. Kathy knew this would be a story that young readers would love, and

she was right. We received enthusiastic notes from many teachers and

students following its publication.



We know that throughout her career, Major General Frost was a respected and

influential leader. She also touched the imagination of many children by

sharing the story of this heroic dog.



We want to extend our deepest sympathy and to let Kathy’s family and friends

know how much we appreciated the unique opportunity to work with her.



Sincerely,

Dick Robinson, President, Scholastic Inc

Rebecca Bondor, Editor in Chief

Janice Behrens, Associate Editorial Director

David Niekerk

August 24, 2006

I first met Kathy in 1981 when she was a captain in Berlin and my boss when I was a first lieutenant. We remained friends all through these years and I had the unique honor of participating in her significant change of command ceremonies when she was a Colonel and as The Adjutant General. I was very honored when she asked me to be the guest Speaker at the Adjutant General Ball in Washington, DC in 2002. No matter what she achieved in life MG Frost always wanted to be known as "Kathy" in her very personal way of making direct "human" contact with everyone she met. Her memory is a blessing to all who knew her. Be Thou at Peace.

FRANK TAUANUU

August 23, 2006

MG Frost was a Great Soldier and Officer. She truly cared about Soldiers and their families. The Army community will miss her but never forgotten. God Bless you all.

Rena Thompson

August 23, 2006

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Gisela Courduff

August 23, 2006

I worked with MG Frost, when she was The Adjutant General. Four unforgetable years, to be surrounded by a great leader, and the coolest woman. An inspiration to all her troops, military and civilians alike. Why do the good and great ones have to leave us so soon? My heartfelt condolences to the family. She will be missed, but never forgotten.

DAWN & FARRELL

August 23, 2006

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Claire Kunkle

August 22, 2006

I really enjoyed working for MG Frost. She really cared about the people in her command. Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Sheila Hickman

August 22, 2006

MG Frost was a great woman and leader and in her kind and thoughful ways laid the path for many of our futures. The impact she had will not be forgotten. My prayers and condolences to her family.

Jonell Calloway

August 22, 2006

Though she had attained great status in the Army, MG Frost remained approachable, caring and encouraging to all. I often expressed my admiration to her for becoming a Genral Officer. I told her that had I joined the Army I would be a GO too. She said "I'm glad you didn't because you would have taken my place." I replied, "no, God would have made room for both of us." That's how she made me feel, that there is always be for those willing to work hard to achieve. I regret that the voice of encouragement is silenced, but I'm greatful that her suffering is over and that she is at rest with Jesus.

Wanda Bruce Graham

August 22, 2006

To the Family & Friends of

MG Kathryn G. Frost,

I extend heartful sympathy to all of you. I served under MG Frost and considered it a privilege and honor; she was a great leader and officer in the Army and represented the AG Corps to the fullest. May God bless you all.

Wanda Bruce Graham, AG LTC (R), USA

August 22, 2006

GWEN, I DIDN'T KNOW KATHY HAD PASSED AWAY UNTIL LATE SUNDAY.PLEASE FORGIVE ME FOR NOT BEING THERE.MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. KATHY WILL BE GREATLY MISSED BY ALL OF US.

B SHERMAN

Sylvia Davis

August 21, 2006

My prayer is that God will be at your side as a loving friend to guide you through this sorrowful period in your life. General Frost was truly a great woman and officer.

Patsy Daniell

August 21, 2006

My prayers are with the Frost Family for comfort and strength. BG Kathyrn Frost is a Lady of integrity, wisdom, honor and with sound religious beliefs. Rest now in the arms of God. You will be missed but not forgotten.

Colonel Carolyn Jones

August 21, 2006

I will forever be indebted to Major General Frost for her tenacity and bravery in opening doors and raising the awareness of providing equal opportunities for Women in the military. Her devotion to the call to duty will forever be honored.

Susan Waugh

August 21, 2006

Gwen: Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.

David Keltner

August 21, 2006

MG Kathy Frost and I worked together on major Army Continuing Education policy and funding issues while she was the Adjutant General and I was the Assistant Deputy for Education and Transition Policy in the Army Secretariat. Her intelligence, charm, and care for soldiers and families was exceptional. Gone too soon is this vivacious and talented woman!

Dian Stoskopf

August 21, 2006

MG Kathy Frost was my mentor, my friend and my boss. She taught me how to be a whole person and stood by me, supporting me during some very trying times. The words which she took from Kathy Mattea's county song "Come from the Heart" taught us all that "you got to sing like you don't need the money, Love like you'll never get hurt, You got to dance like nobody's watchin, It's gotta come from the heart...." The bio I wrote of her which appears in the "Remembering Those That Have Made a Difference in United States Military Voluntary Education" will be sent to her husband and sister. MG Frost made a big difference for me and she will be remembered within ACES as one of our greatest supporters. My condolences to the Frost family and Gwen and her family. Dian Stoskopf, Director, Army Continuing Education System.

Luke & Janie C. King

August 21, 2006

As pastor of the Wannamaker Baptist Church, Nichols, SC, we want to extend our prayers and sympathy to the whole Frost family. God Bless you. Frank and Gwen have a connection with this church. We all are saddened and trust that God will especially close during these days of bereavement.

Crystal Moore

August 21, 2006

My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

Sylvia Moore

August 21, 2006

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Wanda (Richardson) Hayes

August 21, 2006

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Slyvia Moore

August 21, 2006

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Julia Richardson

August 21, 2006

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

John Knight

August 19, 2006

Although I never had the pleasure of meeting General Frost, I am indebted to her for the service she provided to our nation as well as the positive impact she had on countless service members via AAFES. She led a life of honor, duty, and dedication to the United States and will be missed.



On behalf of the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport USO, our condolences are with the Frost family.

Keith Fannon

August 19, 2006

Kathryn Frost was a great officer and a fine lady. I had the pleasure of meeting her while working on the DFW National Cenetery project. May God bless her and her family.

Charles D Jones Jr.

August 19, 2006

Our Thoughts and Prayes, God Bless you all.

Amanda Huffman(Belous)

August 19, 2006

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Gwen and family.

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