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Kathy VanHorn Obituary
KATHY VAN HORN, 64, of Huntington, passed away Friday, May 16, 2025 after an extended illness.
Kathy is survived by her high school sweetheart and husband of nearly 42 years, John Van Horn, and her children, Kate Van Horn and Jake (Gayla) Van Horn. She is also survived by one brother, Kevin (Carla) Linville; two nieces, Kelly (Bill) Swann and Susan Linville (Gabe Sansom); great-nephews, Will, Eric, and Lee, and a great-niece, Darby. Preceding her in death are her parents, Darnell and Marjorie Linville, and one brother, Keith Linville.
Kathy graduated from Barboursville High School and Marshall University, with a bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation and both bachelor's and master's degrees in Education.
A beloved and sharp-witted educator and coach, Kathy's heart for service was evident in her career and community. She supported thousands of students during her three decades in education, including 25 years at Barboursville Middle School, where she taught Science and Social Studies, served as an afterschool tutor, and coached athletes on the co-ed golf, girls' basketball and girls' volleyball teams. She also sponsored the Leo Club at BMS.
Always one of the first to volunteer and help out, Kathy counseled merit badges for Boy Scouts of America; served in Delta Kappa Gamma, an international society for women educators; and was an active member of Community of Grace United Methodist Church, which includes her covenant group, the Sisterhood of the Journal.
Kathy's friends and family may pay respects during a visitation from 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, May 20, at Wallace Funeral Home in Barboursville. An additional visitation hour will be offered Wednesday from Noon to 1 p.m. The funeral service will begin at 1 p.m., Wednesday, May 21, at Wallace Funeral Home, with the Rev. Steve Hamrick presiding. Burial will follow at White Chapel Memorial Gardens in Barboursville.
In lieu of flowers, Kathy requested gifts be made in her memory to groups she supported: the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation; Huntington City Mission; Community of Grace UMC Local Missions, the bead ministry, or Knit-wits; or just plant a tree.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timeformemory.com/wallace.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kathy VanHorn
Sponsored by Wallace Funeral Home - Barboursville.
5 Entries
John and Brenda Tanner
May 24, 2025
We are so sorry to hear of Kathy´s passing. She was such an inspiration to her students and a friend to all. Condolences to John, Kate and Jake.
Terri Hart
May 23, 2025
Kathy was such a lovely person. Both of our boys were fortunate to have been in her class at Barboursville Middle. She'll be greatly missed.
Josh Bloss
May 23, 2025
Mrs. Vanhorn was a substitute for many of my classes, and I was a classmate of Mary Kate's. The classes she covered, none of us wanted her to leave. She was a terrific teacher and always approachable when you needed to talk to someone.
Kayleigh
May 21, 2025
I didn´t know her very well but I do know she´s really sweet. And forever be a good person. Thank you Mrs vanhorn for everything including Leo club and the gulf club. I´m praying for the family of Kathy Vanhorn. R.I.P
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Wallace Funeral Home - Barboursville1159 Central Avenue P.O. Box 7, Barboursville, WV 25504
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