Waverly, Ohio - Kathryn Ann Kellum Puckett, 89, of Bristol Village in Waverly, Ohio, died peacefully January 17, 2026, at Adena Pike County Hospital while in hospice care.

She was born November 23, 1936, in Kokomo, IN to Ralph C. Kellum and Doris Christy Kellum.

Kay graduated from Indiana University with a degree in journalism and later earned her Master's of Divinity from Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis. She began her professional life as a reporter and editor for several daily newspapers, including the Lexington (KY) Leader, the Evansville (IN) Press, and the Kokomo Tribune. She also worked as an advertising copywriter for Wasson's Department Store in Indianapolis.

In 1978, Kay completed her seminary training and began a second career answering a call to ministry. She was ordained as a Presbyterian pastor on July 22, 1979. That same year, she was called to serve in southwest Ohio as pastor of Vinton Area Ministries in McArthur, a cooperative ministry of the McArthur Presbyterian, McArthur Episcopal, and Wilkesville Presbyterian churches. Throughout her years of service, she provided steady leadership and compassionate care to congregations and communities across Vinton, Athens, Meigs, and Gallia counties. She also served on the boards of several nonprofit organizations in the region.

In 1959, she married Clarence Dawson, who preceded her in death. In 1983, she married Frank Puckett of Wilkesville, who preceded her in death in 2013.

Kay is survived by her children, David D. (Tiffiny) Dawson of Cincinnati and Debra Dawson of Brownsburg, Indiana; grandchildren, James and Cooper Dawson and Dylan Dawson Hergott; stepchildren, Dennis Puckett, Darrell Puckett, and Bonnie Scott; and step-grandchildren, Misty, Kristy, and Betty Jane Puckett.

Known for her keen observations, sense of humor, curiosity, thoughtful writing, abiding faith, and deep commitment to service, Kay leaves a legacy of words, works, and witness that will be long remembered by her family, friends, and community.

A Service of Remembrance will be scheduled in the future.