Kathryn Freeman Kendig, 96, of Orange, Texas, passed away on February 27, 2021, in Vidor.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, March 5, 2021 at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Officiating will be Pastor Randy Branch. Face masks will be required of all guests that are in attendance.
She was born December 7, 1924 in Goodlessville, Tennessee to Nellie L. Young and James H. Freeman. Kathryn graduated from Gallatin High School in 1944. The following year she moved to Maytown, Pennsylvania with her husband, Bill. She worked as a secretary for AEI in Leola, Pennsylvania for many years. Kathryn and Bill moved to Orange, Texas in 1966 where they worked together at the Circle Gulf Service Station. She later went to work for Bealls Department Store for 30 years before retiring in 1986 and worked with Bill again until his passing.
Kathryn was an active member of Wesley United Methodist Church. She enjoyed volunteering with her church at the local soup kitchen and taking trips with her fellow members.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Ruben “Bill” Kendig; her parents, James and Nellie Freeman; and her brothers, C. “Andy” Freeman and James R. Freeman.
She is survived by her nephew, Steve Freeman and wife Kellie, and her great-nephew, Lane Freeman, all of Orange.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to a charity of your choice or to Wesley United Methodist Church, 401 N. 37th Street, Orange, Texas 77630.
Condolences
Jean Cazzolla Borsellino
January 31, 2023
"Aunt Kathie" was a beautiful woman. My parents Barbara and John Cazzolla first met her when they relocated to Pennsylvania before I was born. They did move back to NY and after I was born, we would visit Uncle Bill and Aunt Kathie. My mother and Kathie wrote many many letters to each other sharing book titles and recipes. I remember she had a dachshund dog. They later moved to Orange, Texas and opened a gas station. I did visit them when I was 24 and had a wonderful week's visit. I also wrote letters to Aunt Kathie. We would call each other a few times a year over the passing years. I remember her calling me when Bill passed away. Getting married and growing 3 sons with my husband filled my days and was not able to go back, although I kept promising myself I would some day. My Dad did visit her about 10 years ago and somewhere in his albums are photos of that visit. I also have photos I wish I can share with her family. I always referred to her as my second Mother. So when my Mom passed, I knew I had her to lean on. If someone can get in touch with me that would be great. I was wondering why I hadn't gotten a Christmas card from her and looked her up on google. Now I know why and my heart is so sad. Jean Cazzolla Borsellino 914-645-5361
Claybar Funeral Home
March 4, 2021
56 files added to the album LifeTributes
Tomie Young
March 2, 2021
Kathryn was probably one of the most wonderful women I've ever had the honor of knowing in my life. She was so kind and generous, loving and compassionate - there truly are not enough praising adjectives to describe the loving sentiment I feel for her. She was there for me when I lost my mother, again when I lost my husband and then she and Bill were instrumental in helping me not give up hope when just about everything in my life was completely gone and I had nothing. She was my light in the darkness and I will forever cherish her. Hearing the news she had left our world made me so sad, but not for Kathryn, she's gone to her heavenly reward - sad because now there is one less amazing woman to inspire others they can get through anything with just a little encouragement, kindness and belief in others. Thank you Kathryn - for being you - those who were blessed to have known you will miss you forever. Tomie Young
Rosemary
March 1, 2021
Precious woman.
Curley & Betty'S Daughter
February 28, 2021
Oh such a sweet, caring Lady! I remember loving going to their gas station and learning to work on cars (Daddy didn't like it much, until later years - being the tom 'boy' of the family) washing the family cars and checking oil and doing windshields for the patrons! The Kendigs were such funny, caring, loving people to EVERYONE they met! When Mrs. Kendig came to Moma's funeral, and waved at me and gave me her beautiful smile, I merely waved back. My mind was so scrambled then. I asked Daddy who she was and he told me. I rushed through the crowd to find her, and unfortunately didn't. She and Bill had such a positive role in my life and I feel terrible for not hugging her, when I needed it the most. A wonderful Lady who is being greeted by a wild bunch that shared so many good times!Rest In Peace Beautiful Lady. You have earned Your Eternal Wings!Love and Prayers to her family and friends. She was Loved!Anita Lindsey Lake