Colleen A. Winters

Colleen “Kim” Winters, a woman whose kindness will never be forgotten, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025, at St. Anthony’s Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Rock Island, IL. Kim was preceded in death by her parents and seven siblings, all of whom she was very close to and missed dearly.

Born on September 19, 1950, in Rock Island, Kim spent her life making things better for others—whether it was through her work, her family, or her many close friendships. A proud graduate of Alleman High School, Kim spent nearly 30 years as a case worker for the ARC of the Quad Cities. She found joy in every moment with her clients, and they, in turn, were always thrilled to see her. Her empathy and compassion made her a beloved presence in the community, and her work was a true testament to her caring spirit.

Kim’s greatest joy in life, however, was her family. She is survived by her three children: Kate Price (mother to Grayson), McKenzie Mathews (married to Mike, mother of Keller and Eliza), and Alex Devine. Her three grandchildren brought her immeasurable joy, and she had a special way of connecting with young minds. There was never a dull moment when Grandma Kim was around, whether they were playing outside, watching movies, or pretending to be on the moon. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews, all of whom she adored and never missed a chance to spend time with. 

An unapologetic hippie and child of the 60s, Kim adored art and all things music. Artists such as Carli Simon, Joni Mitchell, and James Taylor were no strangers to her turntable. Kim had the patience of a saint–a virtue she no doubt acquired through decades of social work and raising three children. Kim was a free spirit with a slightly warped sense of humor. Sarcasm was a second language and one she spoke fluently. 

A lifelong lover of books, Kim could often be found with a novel in hand, keeping up with the news, or enjoying the sharp wit of The New Yorker. She was never without a cup of coffee nearby and enjoyed a glass or two of wine during lively cookouts and chats with family and friends. While she occasionally forgot to use her “filter,” those moments always brought hearty laughs, because everyone knew her heart was in the right place.

Kim was known for her green thumb with flowers, veggies and herbs always abundant. She loved getting her hands dirty under the sun. Kim loved Pizza and Subs calzones and her Franzia wine. She loved Christmas even if a few items went unwrapped. She loved road trips with her daughters and all of Kate’s dogs. She loved her life and all of those who were part of it.

Kim’s legacy will be defined by her kindness, her laughter, and the love she shared so freely with those lucky enough to know her. A true gem of the Quad Cities, she will be deeply missed by all. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you raise a glass of wine in her honor, spend time with loved ones, and perhaps enjoy a good book—but if you just can’t stop there, QC Paws would be a welcome spot to honor her memory.