Katherine Moore (Horvath) Tijerina

Katherine Moore Tijerina, of The Colony, Texas, passed away Thursday, April 20th, 2023, at the age of 78. She was born January 2nd, 1945, in Edinburgh, Indiana, to Michael and Ottilie Horvath (Cooksey).

Growing up, Katherine was a bit of a tomboy and spent many days exploring outdoors with her brother, Mike, and other neighborhood friends. As a dedicated member of the girl scouts through high school, she developed a deep love for helping others. She attended and graduated from Wright State University in Ohio with her bachelor’s degree and later earned her law degree from the University of Houston, while simultaneously raising 3 young children.

Her passion in life was to stand up for the underdog and protect those who couldn’t protect themselves, which led her into practicing law. As partner with Waterman, Dean, Groth, Forney and Moore, she fought for employee and teacher’s rights in Houston for many years. After moving to Austin around 1995, she accepted a role with TSTA (Texas State Teachers Association) and later with TEA (Texas Education Agency), before serving as an Administrative Law Judge. Throughout her career she made a remarkable difference in the lives of countless individuals and families.  

Through work associations, Katherine found love again when she met Joe Tijerina and they married in May 2003. Soon after they relocated to Virginia, where they enjoyed common interests such as traveling and politics, not to mention living in a part of the country that has actual seasons. Unfortunately, Joe received a cancer diagnosis in 2008, so they moved back to Texas for treatment and support from family and friends. Joe passed away in June 2009 with Katherine at his side. Although their time together on Earth was short, we take comfort in knowing that she is once again with the love of her life.

Katherine was an avid reader. From legal briefs and contracts to newspapers and novels; if it had words in it, she would read it. Her kids would often joke that the reading gene must have skipped their generation, however Katherine did not find it as funny as they did. Outside of that, Katherine greatly enjoyed spending time with her kids and grandkids; Sunday night dinners, shopping with her daughters, playing dominoes and cards, summer vacations and watching her grandkids compete in sports and activities. She was incredibly proud of all of them and was never afraid to express that. Her absence leaves a void that will never be filled, but the accomplishments and contributions she made to the world, her family and friends while she was here will never be forgotten.

Katherine is survived by her children, Brad Plantz, Bethany (Robbie) Rowan, and Misty Masterson; grandchildren Abbey, Averi, Makenna and Baine; sister-in-law, Theresa Horvath of Ohio; and many other loving family members and lifelong friends.

Katherine is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joe Tijerina; her grandson, Tucker Rowan; her brother, Mike Horvath and it warms our hearts to imagine the joyful reunion they are all having.  

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to be made in Katherine’s name to Heavenly Mimi, an organization dedicated to providing financial assistance and empowerment to women and children in need during their cancer journey.

To respect Katherine’s wishes, a formal memorial service will not be held, however, a Celebration of Life event is being planned for later in May. Once finalized, details will be shared on Katherine’s CaringBridge page.

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