Katherine G. Savage

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Kathy was a true trailblazer who etched her name into US labor history.

Katherine Gayle (Willis) Savage was born on February 15, 1950, and peacefully passed away on September 11, 2026, at the age of 76. Kathy graduated from Newburg High School in 1968. She was a longtime resident of Morgantown, WV. Kathy went to be with her Heavenly Father, leaving behind a legacy of strength, grace, unwavering faith, and deeply devoted love for her family.

Kathy was a true trailblazer who etched her name into US labor history. In 1978, following a historic federal mandate opening the coal industry to female workers, she became one of the very first women to work underground at Humphrey No. 7 Mine in Mt. Morris, PA. As a pioneer for women with the Consolidation Coal Company, she faced the rigorous and dangerous demands of the mines with courage and determination. She worked in the challenging environment of the coal mines out of a fierce devotion to her family. As a single mother, Kathy worked tirelessly to provide a beautiful life for her two beloved children, Ken and Rachel. Her grit, sacrifices, and work ethic remain an enduring source of pride and inspiration for her family. In the coal mines, Kathy formed a tight-knit circle of lifelong friends whose bonds remained strong through all of life's seasons. It was also there that she met Jeff, who would become her husband and companion. Kathy's hard work didn't stop when she retired from the mines; she went on to continue her education by earning her bachelor's degree from West Virginia University.

Kathy's life was deeply rooted in her faith. She found comfort, joy, and community in her relationship with God. Her faith served as an anchor through life's challenges and guided the unconditional love she gave to those around her. Kathy was a gentle, kind, and loving mother as well as a thoughtful wife, mother-in-law, Nana, aunt, friend, and pet mom. She cherished her relationships and made the people she loved feel valued. Her family was at the heart of everything she did.

Kathy's creativity was woven into so many parts of her life, from knitting blankets and small gifts to designing intricate floral arrangements and bows. She enjoyed a challenging puzzle and loved a good book. She was always ready for a new adventure with her family. Kathy brought joy to children while clowning alongside one of her closest friends, Shirley. Her dear friend Janet remained by her side throughout her life as well. Kathy truly appreciated the small things in life, and she found immense peace in the quiet beauty of her surroundings.

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Kathy's life was deeply rooted in her faith. She found comfort, joy, and community in her relationship with God.

 Kathy was one of ten children. She was preceded in death by her parents, John Hardin Willis and Gladys Virginia Rodgers; her siblings, Kevin, Linda, John, Allen, and Tim (Willis); and her sister-in-law, Dorothy Willis.

She is survived by her husband, Jeffrey Savage; her two children, Kenneth (Tracy) Willis and Rachel (Justin) Packrone; her grandchildren, Allaysha, Alyssa, Shane, and Brenna; and her great-grandchildren, Kayleigh, Nathan, and Olivia. She also leaves behind her sisters, Susan Pratt and Elizabeth Durst; sisters-in-law Louella Willis and Rita Jo Willis; her brothers, Tom (Pam) Willis and Terry (Terri) Willis; along with many dear nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Kathy lived a life defined by strength, grace, and faith, leaving behind a legacy of profound love and devotion to her family. She will be forever missed and fondly remembered by all who had the honor of knowing her.

Family and friends will gather on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at the Fred L. Jenkins Funeral Home, 10 S. High St., Morgantown, WV 26501, from 2 - 4 PM & 6 - 8 PM, and again on Wednesday from 10 AM until the service at 11 AM, with Pastor Junius Lewis officiating. Interment will follow at Beverly Hills Memorial Gardens.

We invite all who knew Katherine to join us in celebrating her life and to share in our grief as we honor her memory.