Kristina Marie Hiefnar, a woman of unwavering faith, boundless love, and a heart dedicated to serving others, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and strength that will be cherished forever. Born on May 5, 1970, in the historic town of Athens, TN, Kristina lived a life defined by compassion, perseverance, and an infectious joy that touched all who knew her. A proud graduate of McMinn County High School’s Class of 1988, Kristina’s passion for caregiving began early in life. She worked as a Candy Striper while attending Cleveland State, where she became a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Her dedication to her profession led her to further her education, earning both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Wesleyan University. Her confidence, warm personality, and unwavering positivity made her a natural leader in every role she took on, whether at the bedside of a patient or guiding others with wisdom and grace. Yet, among all the titles she held in life, none compared to the one she cherished most—”Mom.” Kristina’s greatest joy was found in her children, Madison Wright, Grace (Bryson) Huckabey, and Sam Biter. Later in life, her heart expanded even further with the honor of becoming “Yona” to her beloved granddaughters, Charlee Kate Castle and Amelia Huckabey. She was their safe haven, their biggest cheerleader, and their guiding light. Kristina’s life was a testament to love in action. She was a devoted sister to Randall McDonald, a faithful friend, and a sister in Christ to many. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—golfing on a sunny day, feeling the ocean breeze on a quiet beach, worshiping in church, and, of course, indulging in her love of shopping. No matter what she was doing, she was always thinking of ways to serve others, bringing smiles to faces, and spreading warmth wherever she went. Those who knew Kristina will remember her as the embodiment of the Proverbs 31 woman—clothed in strength and dignity, speaking wisdom, and always extending her hands to those in need. Her generosity knew no bounds, and her unwavering faith guided her every step. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Patricia and Roy McDonald, and her dear son, Sam Biter. Though she has departed this world, her love remains deeply embedded in the hearts of those she touched. Kristina’s legacy will live on in the kindness she showed, the lives she uplifted, and the unwavering faith she carried through every season of life. She was a light in this world, and though she is no longer physically present, her spirit will forever shine in the lives of her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. A Celebration of Kristina’s life will be held at The Grove Church in Kingston, on Sunday, March 23rd 2025 at 3pm. The family asks for everyone to wear Kristina’s favorite color purple to the celebration, and bring pictures and memories to share. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that acts of kindness be done in her honor, continuing the legacy of love and generosity she so beautifully exemplified. Fraker Funeral Home of Kingston is honored to serve the family of Kristina Hiefner.

The Grove Church

2150 Kingston Hwy Kingston, TN 37763