Catherine “Kelly” King, of Owensboro, age 81, born on March 2, 1942, passed away peacefully under the care of Hospice of Western Kentucky. She was the daughter of the late Alphonsus Joseph “Pooch” Collignon and Frances Valera “Shorty” Collignon. Kelly was preceded in death by brothers, Michael Collignon, and Bobby Collignon, and sister, Sue Walker. She is survived by five sisters: Josephine (Darrel) Stroud, Dianne (Donna) Collignon, Jackie (Jack) Mehock, Judy Adelman, and Debby Bradley; and three brothers: John (Barbara) Collignon, Al Collignon, and Steve (Kim) Collignon. She leaves behind a legacy of love and memories cherished by many nieces and nephews.
Kelly shared over 59 years of marriage with the love of her life, David Earl King, who adored her and was by her side during her long illness. She is cherished by her daughter, Tonya (David) Smith of Bowling Green, KY; son, David (Tracy) King Jr., of Lexington, KY; beloved grandchildren Shelby (Noah) Whalen, Michael King, and Corinne King; and her 20-year-old Pomeranian companion, Roxy.
Kelly was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church for over 50 years. She dedicated much of her life to the fitness industry, initially working at Linda Wayne’s Fitness as an instructor, and later owning and operating it daily for a decade. In her retirement, she found joy in helping friends and family manage consignment stores and loved finding thoughtful no-occasion gifts for people, especially her grandchildren. Kelly’s favorite pastime always revolved around her yard where she spent countless hours feeding wildlife and tending to her flowers which she generously shared with anyone who took an interest. Half of Owensboro has her Spanish moss and Trinity plant. She loved board games, puzzles, cards, penny slots, bowling, golfing, fishing, seashell hunting, UK basketball, trading novels, and reminiscing about growing up as one of 12 Collignon kids in Sorgho, but mostly just talking. On a 3-hour car trip, she could often talk the entire time without stopping, it was a gift she shared with family, neighbors, and strangers, especially the elderly for which she held particular affection. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
A Memorial Service to celebrate Kelly’s life will be held on her birthday, Saturday, March 2nd, at 10:00 am at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. The family requests everyone wear something floral in her honor if you can. Visitation will take place on Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory and again on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church.
Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory is both honored and privileged to be entrusted with the care of Catherine “Kelly” King. Leave your messages of condolence for the family of Mrs. King and sign her virtual guestbook at www.haleymcginnis.com.