Kathy E. (Kile) Gaskill

Kathy Elaine Gaskill (Kile)

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Kathy Elaine Gaskill (Kile), 62, of Yorktown, VA, and formerly of Petersburg, WV, who peacefully transitioned on Sunday, June 9, 2024, in Asheville, NC, under the compassionate care at Care Partners Hospice Solace Center.

Born on November 16, 1961, in Petersburg, WV, Kathy was a beautiful daughter of the late Ira Thurman Kile and Iva Alice Kile (Heavner). She now rests alongside her parents, leaving behind a legacy of love and fond memories.

Kathy is survived by her loving daughter, Kimberly Kopp, and devoted son-in-law, Spencer Kopp, of North Potomac, MD, as well as her cherished grandsons, Dominic Elijah Vega and Malcolm Elijah Kopp. Her dear sisters, Sheila Kile Cohen with her fiancé Ken Jacobs of Asheville, NC, Debra Keplinger with her husband Jay Keplinger of Maysville, WV, along with her caring brother, Greg Heavner of Lahmansville, WV, these all lovingly remain to honor her memory. Kathy’s absence leaves a profound void in the lives of her aunts, uncles, niece Tasha Strickland, nephew Brandon Keplinger, niece Heather Keplinger, niece Jackie Heavner, and a wide circle of family and friends who deeply valued her presence.

Kathy possessed an extraordinary gift for connecting with others. She would engage in conversations with anyone and effortlessly made friends wherever she went. Her contagious laughter and welcoming spirit lit up every gathering, spreading joy and happiness to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. 

A proud graduate of Petersburg High School, Kathy’s recent career as a school bus driver allowed her to touch countless lives. Her passion and unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of the students she transported, coupled with her genuine kindness and love for each and every student was apparent.

Whether she was volunteering her time or offering a listening ear, Kathy’s presence was a beacon of love and generosity. Her memory will forever remain a source of inspiration and comfort in the hearts of those she touched.

Kathy loved Jesus and she continually spoke life into each situation that she encountered, no matter what it was. 

Kathy’s life will be celebrated in a Funeral Service held on Saturday, June 15, 2024 at 3 PM at Schaeffer Funeral Home in Petersburg with Pastor Ted Anderson officiating. Visitation will be from 1 till the time of service at 3. Interment will be in the Lahmansville Cemetery. 

If you prefer, instead of flowers, the family graciously asks for donations to Monarch Watch, as Kathy had a love for butterflies, or to St. Jude, to support children suffering from cancer, as a tribute to Kathy’s legacy of compassion and kindness.

As we bid farewell to Kathy, let us hold onto the treasured memories she has left behind and find peace in the Jesus-like love she shared with us all.                           

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.