Lindsay Brooke Athow, a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, granddaughter, friend, and ray of sunshine to everyone who knew her, entered into the presence of her Heavenly Father on September 30, 2026, at the age of 40.

Lindsay was born December 20, 1985, in Decatur, Alabama, to Donna Lynn Higginbotham and Kevin Harden Athow. Lindsay graduated from Arab High School and spent much of her life pouring into others. She later worked as a substitute teacher at Parkside Elementary School, where she was loved by many of the children she encountered. Lindsay had a special way of making people feel seen, heard, and cared for, and the lives of many children were touched by her kindness and joyful spirit.

From the moment Lindsay walked into a room, she brought sunshine with her. Her smile could light up a room, and her hilarious personality could make anyone laugh. She loved her people deeply and was always willing to listen. Lindsay was a giver in every sense of the word, constantly thinking of others before herself and going above and beyond for the people she loved. She loved birthdays and any opportunity to celebrate the people who were important to her. Whether it was a special occasion or simply spending time together, Lindsay made the people around her feel loved and valued.

Lindsay was also an incredibly artistic and creative person. She could craft just about anything and had a gift for taking ordinary things and making them beautiful. She loved fashion and makeup and always enjoyed finding ways to express her creativity. She was also always ready for an adventure, going with the flow and being willing to join in on whatever fun plans came her way.

One of Lindsay's greatest passions was caring for animals. She had an enormous heart for every animal in need and could never turn one away. She especially loved cats, earning herself the affectionate reputation of being a “crazy cat lady.” Her love for them was so great that once a kitten found its way into Lindsay's care, it was hard for her to ever let it go. She spent countless hours tending to her many animals and making sure they were cared for and loved. Lindsay also enjoyed gardening and found joy in tending to the things she had planted and watching them grow.

Above all else, Lindsay was devoted to her daughter, Caitlynn. She was immensely proud of her and was her biggest cheerleader. There was hardly a soccer or basketball game where Lindsay could not be found in the stands, proudly supporting her daughter. She never missed an opportunity to show Caitlynn how much she loved her and was always there to celebrate her accomplishments, encourage her, and cheer her on. Being Caitlynn's mother was one of Lindsay's greatest joys.

Lindsay loved the Lord and had placed her faith in Jesus Christ. Her love for others, her servant's heart, and the way she cared for those around her were a reflection of the love she carried in her heart. Those who knew Lindsay will remember not only her beautiful smile and contagious laughter, but also the countless ways she made life brighter for the people and animals around her.

Lindsay's life will be celebrated on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Arab Cemetery, with Pastor Scott Campbell officiating. Connor Smith, Johnny Menke, Guy Higginbotham, David Culbert, Logan Suter, Casey Knight, and Greg Hendrix will serve as pallbearers.

Lindsay was preceded in death by her father, Kevin Harden Athow.

Those left to cherish Lindsay's memory include her husband, Kevin Sullivan; her daughter, Caitlynn Sullivan; her mother, Donna Lynn Higginbotham; her sisters, Brittney Ward (Johnny Menke) and McKenzie Smith (Connor Smith); her niece, Avery James Smith; her grandmother, Virginia “Memaw” Roden; and a host of extended family, friends, and all of the children, animals, and countless people whose lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Lindsay's memory to UAB NICU or to Westside Veterinary Hospital under the account name of Lindsay Athow. Donations to Westside Veterinary Hospital will go toward caring for Lindsay's many beloved kittens, continuing the love and compassion she showed to animals throughout her life.

Lindsay's beautiful spirit, contagious smile, generous heart, and love for her people will never be forgotten. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories, a daughter who will forever carry her love with her, and countless people who are better for having known her. She will be deeply missed until the day we meet her again.

Ms. Athow’s obituary was lovingly written by her family.

Holly Pond Funeral Home is honored to serve the Athow family.