Kathryn Penn
Sadly, our beloved Kathryn “Kate” Penn, 64, of Pickerington, OH, passed away on July 29, 2026. Kate was born on November 18, 1961, in Columbus, OH, to William and Sharlene Penn.
After graduating from Walnut Ridge High School, she went on to receive her bachelor’s degree in Education from Bowling Green State University and her master’s degree in Speech Therapy from Kent State University. She was passionate about her lifelong career as a speech therapist with Columbus City Schools and Performance Academy. Kate married her husband, Brian, on April 1, 2022, and was a loving mother to her daughter, Kaitlyn, her son, Ben, and her countless other “kids” she took under her wing. She also cherished being a grandma to her four grandchildren.
Kate was predeceased by her father, William, in 2006 and her mother, Sharlene, in 2016, both of whom she loved very much and can now rejoice in reunion. She is survived by her husband, Brian; her daughter, Kaitlyn; and her son, Ben. Kate also leaves behind a loving and brokenhearted group of cousins, grandchildren, dear friends, and extended family, along with nearly four decades of lives touched through her dedicated work in special education and after-school programs.
Nothing in Kate’s life meant more to her than being Kaitlyn’s mom. Through every season of life, theirs was a bond built on unconditional love, unwavering devotion, and a friendship that grew alongside them. Kate never stopped believing in her daughter, never stopped showing up, and never stopped loving her. Being Kaitlyn’s mom was the greatest privilege and joy of Kate’s life.
Kate and Brian shared a bond that spanned decades, built on friendship, unwavering loyalty, and an understanding that rarely needed words. Their shared sense of humor and the way they complemented one another made them true partners and, above all else, best friends. The life they built together was one of Kate’s greatest blessings.
Kate had a big personality and an even bigger heart. Following the path of her mother, Kate took in and cared for anyone in need—friend, foe, or stranger. She made their burdens her own and redefined what family means for those blessed to have their lives shaped by her kindness.
She lived life to the fullest and spread love to everyone she met. Her empathy and compassion were contagious.
She loved music and singing. During her time in high school, she was involved in many theater productions and continued singing in multiple choirs throughout her life. She loved going out dancing and enjoying live music. Her greatest joy in life was being a mother, a wife, and a grandmother.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Please join us to honor and remember Kate—a mother, a wife, a G-ma, and a friend to all.
Roberts-Winegardner Funeral Home, 304 Mill Street, New Lexington, Ohio is in charge of arrangements.
Obituary, online guest book and condolences at www.robertsfuneralhomenewlex.com
