Obituary of Kathleen Cleavenger

Kathleen Cleavenger, 93, passed away in Buckhannon on the night of December 19th. Kathleen, one of seven children born to Philip and Arzilla Walls, was a fixture in her family, many of whom referred to her lovingly as Aunt Kate.  She was born on September 22, 1925 in Gladesville, WV.  Aunt Kate leaves more friends and relatives than can be named, but who include grandchildren Becca Spence Dobias and Sadie Spence, great-grandchildren Jonas and Josie Spence Dobias, nephews Carl Walls, Nick Masi, Phillip Walls, Larry Walls, and John Walls, nieces Helen Phillips, Patty Cratty, Marie Buckner, Linda Rominski, Cassandra Martin, and Jayleen Walls, step -children Larry and Jeannie, and numerous great-nieces and nephews.  Preceding her in death were her siblings Violet, Vernon, Clifford, Christine, Frank, and Billy, husband Harry Cleavenger, step-son Eddie, and son Kenneth Spence. After graduating from Buckhannon-Upshur High School in 1944, Kathleen moved to Washington D.C. where she worked as a "government girl" classifying fingerprints for the FBI. After spending time in Akron, Ohio as one of the first people to work with computers for Akron City Hospital, she returned to Buckhannon to be closer to her family. Kathleen was an avid reader whose favorites included The Count of Monte Cristo and books by Pearl S. Buck.  She enjoyed sewing and crafting, often making gifts for the family. Kathleen appreciated music, especially opera and the Irish tenors.  She collected hats and was rarely seen without one.  Kathleen volunteered for the St. Joseph's Hospital Auxiliary and the Literacy Volunteers.  She was a long-time supporter of Save the Children, and traveled to meet her sponsored child.  Kathleen was an active member of the West Virginia Professional Women's Club in Buckhannon and the Red Hat Society.  Kathleen had a large influence on several generations of Walls children.  She will be remembered for her patience, generosity, sense of humor, and unconditional love. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.