Kathy Orndorff Cloninger departed this life on Sunday, May 16, 2021 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. She was preceded in death by her parents, Blanche Burson Orndorff and Joseph Lonas Orndorff, and brothers, Robert Francis Douglass and Daniel Joseph Orndorff. She is survived by devoted husband of 47 years, Kenneth Cloninger; two loving sons and daughters-in-law, Michael (Stacey) Cloninger and Patrick (Christine) Cloninger; grandchildren, Joey, Jake, and Grace Gerken. Beloved sister-in-law, Peggy Moore; niece, Sonya (Kreis) French and great-niece, Kristen French (Lance) McCloud; nephews, Chris (Amber) Moore and Daniel Orndorff. Dear friends, Phyllis Brewer and Nancy Silcox.
Kathy was born in Knoxville on Friday, September 17, 1954 and spent her youth in the home her great-grandfather built on Historic Gibbs Drive in Fountain City. She and Kenny made it their home after their marriage, and lovingly restored and renovated it into the beautiful and welcoming home it is today. She loved to entertain and was known as a gracious hostess. The house was also home to many fortunate dogs through the years; Kathy had a special fondness for dachshunds.
She and Kenny were tireless community volunteers, particularly with the Gibbs Drive Neighborhood Association and Fountain City Day in the Park. Thanks to Gibbs Drive neighbors for the food and many front porch visits. Kathy recently retired from HealthcareSource; she appreciated the generosity and support of coworkers and management. Special thanks to Avalon Hospice for their wonderful care. A Celebration of Life Service is scheduled for Monday, May 24th at 7pm at Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home with Rev. John Jackson officiating. Memorials can be made to Young-Williams, 3201 Division Street, Knoxville, 37919. Kathy's was a beautiful life well-lived. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and neighbors.
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