Kathy Sue Arden Rapier was born in Greenback TN on October 9th, 1964. The 11th of 14 children, she quickly learned how to stand out in a crowd. She graduated from William Blount High School in 1982 and lived for a short time in Gastonia, North Carolina, but remained a resident of East Tennessee for the majority of her life. Kathy was always ready with a kind smile, hearty laugh and a warm hug. Beautiful inside and out, she would make sure everyone around her felt seen with strangers quickly turning to friends. She loved hosting her annual Halloween party, opening her home up to family or friends, celebrating holidays and milestones, and giving new life to old things. Kathy put children at ease and delighted in entertaining them. She was an amazing Aunt and Great Aunt to dozens, encouraging 3 generations to be strong, unique, fun-loving and independent. Kathy raised three remarkable children of her own; Dustin Johnson (partner Amber Cassada), Haley Stephens (sp. Adam Stephens), and Taner Rapier (sp. Jenna Rapier). She leaves behind 5 beautiful grandchildren (Cheyenne & Savannah Johnson, Kincely Rodgers, Blair Stephens, & Vivienne Rapier) and 2 step grandchildren (Paisley and Levi Stephens), all of whom she doted on and cherished so dearly.

On Monday July 21st, 2025 Kathy left a void in the hearts of many. She is preceded in death by her parents (Helen and Hoyt Arden), siblings (Linda Owens, Joyce Shelton, Donald "Duck" Arden, Virginia "Jenny" Orr, Dale Arden, and James "Buddy" Arden) and dear niece (Amber Gilmore). She leaves behind mourning siblings Debra Mote, Vicky Gilmore, Jerry Arden, Dwight Arden, Wayne Arden, Sheila Hickman, and Julie Hatcher. Special mention of her nieces Crystal Hinkle and family & Tiffany Moss and family.

A celebration of her life is planned for 6:00 pm on Friday August 22nd, 2025 at New Hope Baptist Church.

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