News Summary
Kathryn Jewel Sivley Coffelt, a revered figure in the Chattanooga community, passed away at the age of 99, leaving behind a legacy of love and service. Known affectionately as Kay, she contributed greatly to her family and the community throughout her life. A graveside service is planned to honor her remarkable journey and the impact she had on those around her.
Chattanooga – Kathryn Jewel Sivley Coffelt, a cherished matriarch of the Chattanooga community, has passed away at the age of 99. She died peacefully at her home on May 13, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Her remarkable life and legacy will be remembered by many who knew her.
Kathryn, affectionately known as Kay, was born on June 17, 1925, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Ethel Durham and Russell Milo Sivley. She was a lifelong resident of the area, raised on her family’s farm at the base of Signal Mountain. The Sivley family settled in Chattanooga in 1820 and developed a substantial landholding that included parts of Mountain Creek, Glendale, and Signal Hill.
As one of nine siblings, Kay grew up with a strong sense of family and togetherness. She was the third child, following Virginia, Dorothea, and Betty, and had three brothers, Bill, Kenneth, and Calvin, as well as two more sisters, Barbara and Carolyn. Her father Russell lovingly referred to her as his “Little Jewel,” as she was the only child he was permitted to name.
Kay’s upbringing on the Sivley farm was characterized by hard work and resilience, as the family initially lacked electricity and running water. Nevertheless, the farm was rich in laughter, love, and faith. Her connection to music began early on, attending Mountain Creek Baptist Church, where she learned to read music and harmonize with her sisters as part of a quartet that performed on the T. Perry Brannon radio show.
After graduating from Red Bank High School in 1943, Kay began her professional career at Woolworth’s department store. She soon became a notable saleswoman at Woods White Company, ultimately rising to the position of executive vice president. Her influence in the company extended to her family, as she introduced her younger sister Barbara to the office supply industry. Kay fondly remembered the perks her job provided, including business trips to Chicago and the ability to help her parents purchase a new dining set.
In a romantic twist, Kay eloped with J.C. “Clifford” Coffelt, Jr. on New Year’s Eve in 1959 in Miami, Florida. The couple welcomed their only son, John Russell, and built a home on Chickamauga Lake in Hixson, where they would later host joyful family gatherings. Clifford managed the family-run Coffelt’s Exxon, established in 1923, while Kay took on various roles in the office until his retirement in 1987.
Active members of White Oak Baptist Church, the Coffelts enjoyed square dancing in their later years, embracing a quiet yet fulfilling life together. Kay’s dedication to her family expanded as she welcomed her daughter-in-law, Kelly Cronin, and three grandchildren: Kate, Ellis, and Carter. In her final 13 years, Kay lived with her son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren, making the most of the precious time spent together.
Kay is survived by her son, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, and a sister, Barbara (Joseph) Waters, along with a brother-in-law, sister-in-law, and numerous nieces and nephews. Her charming smile, warm heart, and generosity left a lasting impression on those who met her.
A graveside service to celebrate Kay’s life is scheduled for May 22 at Chattanooga Memorial Park, officiated by Pastor Tony Williams and Father Ed Bacon. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Chattanooga Area Food Bank or McKamey Animal Center, honoring Kay’s caring spirit and commitment to helping those in need.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Rodney Davis
- Wikipedia: Kathryn Coffelt
- Times Free Press: Deborah Martin
- Google Search: Kathryn Coffelt
- Legacy.com: Jeffrey Lamb
- Google Scholar: Kathryn Coffelt
- Heritage Chattanooga: Lamar Parker White
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Kathryn Coffelt
- Taylor Funeral Home: Gregory Malone
- Google News: Kathryn Coffelt
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
