Kathy Flowers, age 82, an Albany, Kentucky native and longtime resident of Burkesville, passed away peacefully at her home on November 8th, 2024. She was born in Louisville, Kentucky to the late Romey and Jane Brents Needham. In early childhood her family moved back to Albany, Kentucky. Kathy grew up in a Christian home and was encouraged to pursue a college education by her maternal grandfather, who was a lawyer. At an early age, she began teaching Sunday School at a small mission church and she realized then that she wanted to teach young children. Kathy’s sister, Sara, and she shared many happy times together. She developed a close friendship with a group of girls that called themselves the “Crazy 8”. This group continued their friendship throughout their lives. They had many sleepovers and these friendships enriched her life with fun and love for over 60 years.

In 1963 the single most important thing in her life happened, she got married. Kathy wed the kindest, most gentle man in the world –  her sweetheart, Randel Flowers. God blessed their marriage with two wonderful sons and nearly 61 years together. Kathy had a deep love for her devoted husband, who was a wonderful caregiver during her last year, as well as her family. She especially looked forward to family gatherings.

Kathy graduated from Clinton County High School in 1960. She was a graduate of Western Kentucky University (undergraduate and Rank 1) and Valdosta State College of Georgia (masters degree). Her teaching career spanned three states and over 30 years. She spent 27 of those years teaching first grade at Cumberland County Elementary School. She was committed to creating a love of reading in her students, as she too was an avid reader and member of a local book club. Kathy had many fond memories of the staff she worked with, as well as the young students she taught.

Some of Kathy’s favorite things were planning events for her family and friends, note writing, card sending, and attending her church. She loved creating lasting memories filled with fun and laughter.  She was a Christian and a member of the Burkesville Baptist Church, the Gideon’s International Auxiliary, and the Retired Teachers Association.

Kathy is survived by her husband, Dr. Randel A. Flowers of Burkesville, two sons, Wade (Sue-Elise) and Van (Lori); three grandchildren, Erin (Jacob), Will (Samantha), and Georgia; and two great grandchildren, Lila and Thomas; one sister, Sara Needham Anderson and several nieces and nephews. She also leaves her special childhood friends, Eva Doris, Mary Wayne, Jacquita, Rita, Sara, and Martina.

The Funeral Service will be conducted on Saturday, November 16, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. C.S.T. in The Memory Chapel of Norris-New Funeral Home in Burkesville with Bro. Nickie Richards officiating. The family will receive friends after 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 16, until the funeral hour. Burial will be in the Memorial Hill Cemetery in Albany, Kentucky. In lieu of flowers memorials appreciated to The Gideons International Cumberland County Camp or Burkesville Baptist Church. Norris-New Funeral Home is honored to be in charge of the arrangements.