The Twin Oaks commune will honor the life of one of its founders, Kathleen "Kat" Kinkade, with music, plays and book readings. The memorial services are scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. today in Louisa County.

"She was very clear that she didn't want her passing to be mourned, but for her life to be celebrated," said Paxus Calta, a Twin Oaks resident.

Ms. Kinkade was inspired to establish Twin Oaks in the 1960s when she read "Walden Two," a book written by B.F. Skinner about an egalitarian utopia. She, her husband and daughter were among the eight to found the community in June 1967, when she was 36.

Residents and experts say the commune was able to outlive others founded in that era because it balanced practical values of work with its egalitarian ideals. Twin Oaks also benefited from a longtime business arrangement in which residents made hammocks for Pier 1 Imports.

Members share all work responsibilities, including child care, and pool resources for housing, food, clothing and other things. Each member receives a $75 per month stipend.

Ms. Kinkade lived in the community until she got tired of communal life at age 70. She remained involved with the community while living in a small home in Mineral, where she planted flowers and rescued cats, said an obituary posted on the commune's Web site.

She moved back to the commune in December when she became too ill to care for herself. She died July 3 from complications from bone cancer.

"She was ailing for a long time, and her life was complete," said Paxus, who like several Twin Oaks residents, goes by one name. "I think people were not surprised, and some people were ready for it."

The memorial service will begin in nearby Yanceyville Church, where Ms. Kinkade was a member and sang in the choir. Back at the commune, residents will watch videos of her plays and read from her two books, Paxus said.

"There will be people telling stories of her life," he said.

She was buried July 4 in the Twin Oaks graveyard.

She is survived by her daughter, Josie Kinkade, and granddaughter, Lee Ann Kinkade.

Memorial contributions can be made to SNAP (Spay and Neuter All Pets), P.O. Box 1277, Louisa, Va., 23093.

Contact staff writer Calvin R. Trice at (540) 932-3674 or ctrice@timesdispatch.com