Florene Lay Cathers

Florene Lay Cathers, age 83, of Corbin, KY, passed away on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Baptist Health Corbin. 

Known for her sharp wit and engaging stories, Florene found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including her beloved crossword puzzles that she skillfully completed. Her dedication was evident in her 27-year-long illustrious career as an educator at Keavy Elementary School. She touched countless lives with her wisdom and teachings, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all her students. Florene's compassionate nature extended beyond the classroom to the church, where she was an active member. Her faith was unwavering, and she found immense joy in studying her Bible and sharing her insights with her cherished church family. 

Above all, Florene was a woman whose heart held boundless love for her family. She believed in the power of kindness and the joy of bringing happiness to others, traits that she embodied until her last breath. Her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched. 

She was preceded in death by her son, Michael Cathers; husbands, Donald W. Cathers, and Gene Morgan; parents, Ernest Lay and Nola Taylor Lay; brothers, Ernie Lee Lay and Ralph Lay; and sister Arlene Pfaff. 

Florene is survived by her grandchildren, Christina Ashley Riehemann (Luke), and Matthew Cathers (Danielle); sisters, Retha Orrick (Paul), Donna Jones, and Connie Lay; special friend, Linda Sparks; and all her cherished friends at Corbin Church of the Nazarene. 

Visitation will be held from 12-2 pm on Friday, March 28, 2025, at Corbin Church of the Nazarene, where her funeral service will follow at 2 pm on Friday, with Rev. Greg McClain officiating. 

Burial will follow at Pine Hill Cemetery in Corbin, KY.