- BIG STONE GAP, VA - Patricia Lynn "Pat" Kennedy, 66 passed away on Saturday, March 16, 2019, surrounded by her family at home.
BIG STONE GAP VA - Patricia Lynn Kennedy, 66, ended her Earthly journey on March 16, 2019 after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer; she was surrounded by family and friends.
Pat was born on October 6, 1952 in Appalachia, VA where she enjoyed playing with her brother and cousins on their grandparents' nearby farm. She enjoyed the love of a large extended family throughout her life--Pat always looked forward to attending the annual family reunions held at Pipestem State Park and participating in a rousing game of Farkle. Her family was her greatest joy, particularly being a devoted mother.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold & Ann Kennedy; her husband, Lynn Woodard; niece, Leigh Ann Bolinskey; and special Uncle Ray "Papaw" Bailey.
Pat is survived by two sons, Nate (Ashley) Woodard of Alexandria, VA and Tommy Woodard of Big Stone Gap, VA; brother, Gary (Kathy) Kennedy of Appalachia; nephew, Adam (Jennifer) of Big Stone Gap; and special Aunt Agnes "Nana" Bailey of Big Stone Gap. She is also survived by great nieces & nephews, numerous cousins, and a host of life-long friends that were always ready with words of love and encouragement.
She graduated as Valedictorian from Appalachia High School in 1971 and furthered her education at Clinch Valley College, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1975 with majors in Spanish, French & English. Pat spent 43 years touching the lives of thousands of students at Grundy, Keokee, Powell Valley, and Union High Schools.
While Pat specialized in teaching Spanish she also taught French, English, and Government. A lifelong sports enthusiast, she represented the Lady Cavaliers in softball and volleyball in college, launched the Lady Vikings softball team as their inaugural coach, and loved cheering on the Hokies!
Pat loved to travel, planning and chaperoning countless trips for family, friends, and students. From Ireland to Peru, to San Francisco, Mexico, Niagara Falls, local concerts, and every historical landmark on the east coast, her quest for adventure was extraordinary. Finally, she loved the beach and especially lighthouses.
Friends may gather to reminisce from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 28, 2019, in the Union High School Auditorium. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 7 p.m.
Gilliam Funeral Home & Crematory is serving Pat Kennedy's family.
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1952 - 2019 (66 years)
