Mary Katherine “Kathy” Max-Romano

September 9, 1959 – September 15, 2026

Mary Katherine “Kathy” Max-Romano passed away on September 15, 2026, in Bayou Vista, Texas, at the age of 67.

Kathy was born on September 9, 1959, in College Station, Texas, to her loving parents, Kay Max and Harry Max. Although born in Texas, much of Kathy's childhood took her around the world. Growing up overseas, she lived in Nigeria, Argentina, Venezuela, and other countries, where she experienced different cultures and ways of life from an early age. During her years abroad, Kathy became fluent in Spanish, a language and skill she carried with her throughout her life.

After returning to the United States, Kathy continued her education at The University of Texas at Austin, where she graduated in 1981 with a Bachelor of Arts, focusing on Latin American Studies. Her international upbringing and college years were important chapters in a life filled with unique experiences.

In 1989, Kathy married John H. Romano, beginning a marriage that would span 37 years. Together they built a life and family, raising their two sons, Daniel M. Romano and Johnny R. Romano, and sharing the many joys, challenges, adventures, and everyday moments that make up a life together.

Upon moving to the Island, Kathy became the owner of Postal Perks, a coffee shop on the West End of Galveston, Texas. The shop became more than a business for Kathy. It gave her a place to connect with people and allowed her natural love of conversation and community to flourish.

Kathy also discovered a special passion for birds and birding, a passion she shared with her family. What began as Kathy's interest grew into something the family could share, creating memories that they will carry with them as they return to the outdoors.

Kathy was a loving wife, devoted mother, proud grandmother, sister, and friend whose family meant the world to her.

Kathy will be remembered not only for the places she lived and the things she accomplished, but for the person she was. From a childhood spent around the world, to the friendships and conversations she enjoyed at Postal Perks, Kathy built connections wherever life took her. Her strength, independence, curiosity, and love of people left an impression that will not easily be forgotten.

Kathy was preceded in death by her loving parents, Kay Max and Harry Max, who passed away in 2020.

She is survived by her husband of 37 years, John H. Romano; her sons, Daniel M. Romano and Johnny R. Romano; her granddaughter, Scarlett Coleman; and her sisters, Marlene Max and Elizabeth Fry. She also leaves behind extended family, friends, and loved ones who will cherish her memory.

Kathy had a strong personality and a presence that was impossible to miss. She was unmistakably herself, and those who knew her will remember the love and authenticity she brought to her relationships and her life.

Kathy's family will carry her memory with them always—in the stories they tell, the lessons and passions she passed down, and the countless moments they spent together. Time spent outdoors will carry another reminder of Kathy: looking beyond the water to notice the birds overhead, along the shoreline, and in the distance, just as she sees them.

Kathy will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.