Katie Greenwood Ross, affectionately known online as “Thistlethistle,” passed away after a courageous and inspiring battle with cancer. Her passing has left a profound void in the lives of her family, friends, and the community that rallied around her during her journey. Katie’s grace, warmth, humor, and resilience were unmatched, and her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched.
Katie’s story is one of strength, love, and unwavering spirit. She approached life with a deep sense of empathy and creativity, which was evident in everything she did—from her relationships to her work to her deeply heartfelt writing.
Online, she built a supportive and thoughtful community under the name “Thistlethistle,” where she shared her reflections, poetry, and intimate thoughts on illness, healing, and the human experience. Her words offered solace and strength to others facing challenges of their own, and her authenticity resonated with thousands.
Born with a gift for language and a tender heart, Katie built a life rooted in compassion. She was a dedicated partner, a loving family member, and a fiercely loyal friend.
Those who knew her personally speak of her thoughtful nature, quick wit, and the way she made people feel truly seen. Even while navigating the pain and uncertainty of cancer, Katie remained deeply present for others—always offering kindness, encouragement, and, when needed, a dose of humor.
Her journey with cancer was marked by transparency and bravery. Katie shared the highs and lows of her treatment openly, giving voice to a reality that is often hidden.
In doing so, she not only educated others but created a safe space for vulnerability, solidarity, and healing. The raw honesty and quiet strength she showed inspired many who followed her path and found in her an anchor of hope.
Though her life was far too short, Katie’s impact is immeasurable. She taught those around her the importance of savoring beauty, embracing imperfection, and showing up with love, no matter the circumstances. She leaves behind a community of readers and friends who are better for having known her spirit and her story.
Katie Greenwood Ross is survived by her loving family, devoted friends, and an extended network of supporters from around the world who came to know her through her writing and presence. Her passing is a devastating loss, but her memory remains a light to all who knew her.
In honoring Katie’s life, we are reminded to hold close the people we love, to speak with honesty and tenderness, and to carry forward the compassion she embodied so effortlessly.
Plans for a memorial service will be announced by the family in the coming days. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Katie’s memory to cancer research or to organizations supporting patient care and creative expression during illness.
Katie Greenwood Ross was a writer, a fighter, and above all, a beacon of love. She will be missed deeply and remembered always.
