Kathy DeLong Orndoff

Kathy DeLong Orndoff, age 55, left this world on February 1, 2026, after her seven month battle with pancreatic cancer and depression. Kathy was born November 3, 1970, in Columbus, Ohio to Shirley and Phillip DeLong. Preceded in death by her father, Phillip F. DeLong, and her brother, Roger G. DeLong. Kathy is survived by her husband of 31 years, Preston J. Orndoff; daughter, Kimberly D. Orndoff; son, Derek P. Orndoff; and her mother, Shirley D. DeLong.

Kathy was a graduate of Westerville South High School. While in high school, she adored theater, band, dancing, homecoming court, color guard, serving as senior class president, and so much more. She received her Bachelor of Arts in communications from the University of Kentucky (UK). At UK, Kathy joined Delta Gamma and continued to be a supporting sister of her chapter until she passed. Kathy’s legacy as a Wildcat and as a Delta Gamma Alum lived on when her son attended and graduated from UK in 2025 and when her Daughter graduated from Kent State University as a Delta Gamma Sister. As she grew through her career, she ultimately ended up at FedEx, working various titles over her 18 years with the company. Kathy and Preston continued to build their dream when they moved to Oak Hill, Ohio in 2020 where everyone would gather to celebrate the holidays, birthdays, joyous occasions, and so much more.

Kathy lived life vibrantly. She loved music, the arts, literature, people, friends, and most importantly her family. Kathy was the type of person who would move mountains to help those she loved and those she had only just met. She had a passion for making people feel seen, heard, and loved. Kathy was defined by those who love her most as a bright light. Whether through comforting words, a thoughtful gesture, or a laugh that filled a room, she carried this bright light with her to help brighten the way for those around her.

One of her greatest gifts in life was her ability to turn ordinary moments into the most joyous memories. She filled quiet meals with booming laughter, she made every small victory feel like a war had been won, and she created traditions that will live on forever in her children.

Kathy’s greatest love was for her husband, and her two kids. She poured every drop of her light she created into being a mother by always offering a shoulder to cry on, a voice that made them feel heard, strength when they felt weak, and a warm gentle touch when they needed a hug the most. Kathy will live on through the values and the light she instilled in her two kids.

Kathy’s final resting place will be at Blendon Central Cemetery in Westerville Ohio. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of the Lewis & Gillum Funeral Home of Oak Hill. Online condolences may be sent to www.lewisgillum.com.