Patti Lyn Hilton Cantrell

Patti Lyn Hilton Wolfe Cantrell, 73, of Big Stone Gap, Virginia, passed away on March 16, 2026. Born on April 13, 1952, in Appalachia, Virginia and raised in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, Patti lived a life defined by devotion to her family, loyalty to her friends, and a deep commitment to the community she called home.
Patti was a 1970 graduate of Powell Valley High School, and from an early age she demonstrated the drive and determination that would shape everything she pursued. In 1971, she married the love of her life, Gregg "Orby" Cantrell, and together they built a life rooted in love, faith, and togetherness. Patti went on to further her education, earning her degree from Tusculum College in 1994. Her dedication to learning and professional excellence led her to serve as Vice President of Financial Affairs at Mountain Empire Community College, where she left a lasting impact on the institution and the many students and colleagues whose lives she touched.
Above all else, Patti was known for her love of family and friends. She had a way of making the people around her feel valued and cared for, and she gave generously of her time, her energy, and her heart. Whether gathering loved ones around her table or offering a word of encouragement to someone in need, Patti lived with warmth and purpose every single day. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe Wolfe, Jr and Theresa Hilton Wolfe and her brother Joe Wolfe, III (Jody).
Patti is survived by her beloved husband, Gregg "Orby" Cantrell of Big Stone Gap; her precious daughter, Alison, and son in law Chris Deary and her cherished granddaughter, Laurel Delaney. She is also survived by her sister, Sherry and brother-in-law, Jerry White, sister, Melanie and brother-in-law, Bob White, her nephew, Andrew Wayne White and fiancé Vanitee Holbrook, her niece Kellie Victoria (Tori) and husband Tristan Grubb, her great nephew, Wynstan Andrew White and two great nieces, Averi Blake and Adley Drew Grubb. She leaves behind a close circle of friends and extended family who will carry her memory forward with love and gratitude.
Patti's faith was the foundation of her life, and she walked closely with the Lord in all things. Those who knew her saw that faith reflected in the way she lived, loved, and served others. Her life was a beautiful testament to the words of Proverbs 31: "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her."
Patti has gone home to be with her Savior, and while she will be deeply missed, her family finds peace in knowing she rests in His eternal embrace.
The family will receive friends on Friday, March 20, 2026 from 12:00noon to 2:00pm on Friday, at First Christian Church, Big Stone Gap, Virginia. The funeral service will begin at 2:00pm with Greg Townsend ministering.
The graveside service will follow at Glencoe Cemetery Mausoleum. Those serving as pallbearers will be Andy White, Chris Deary, Rob Luster, Jacob Townsend, Dan Gibson and Shane Vandergriff.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Isaiah 117 House, c/o First Christian Church, 640 Wood Ave. E, Big Stone Gap, VA 24219.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family of Patti Cantrell.