Kathy Stortenbecker

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kathy Stortenbecker, who left this world on Sunday, March 30, 2025, in Destin, Florida, at the age of 69.

Born on February 15, 1956, in Middletown, Ohio, Kathy was the beloved daughter of Eugene and Joyce Rich. She is survived by her husband, Thomas Stortenbecker; her brothers, William Palmer and Eric Rich; her sister, Paula Rich; her dear Aunt Phyllis; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins who will forever cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Cindy (Palmer) Carey and Peggy (Palmer) Sexton; and her brother, Sam Palmer.

She is also survived by her beloved dog, Bentley.

Kathy built a beautiful life centered around family, kindness, and unwavering generosity. She was the proud mother of three daughters: Candy (Marcus) Abercrombie, Joy (Chris) Wolsiefer, and Katie Liggett. Her greatest joy was being “Nana” to ten adoring “Grand Ones”: Macayla, Mackenzie, Addison, Greyson, Ryan, Rowen, Sam, Sydney, Amelia, and Jack. Through her marriage, she also gained a daughter, Sara (Chris) Sansbury, and a cherished grandson, Oliver.

Kathy had the kindest heart, always putting others before herself. She would give anything she had if someone needed it more, never hesitating to lend a helping hand. She found a second family in her coworkers at McGuire’s Irish Pub, where she worked with dedication and warmth, touching countless lives along the way.

Even when faced with cancer, Kathy met the challenge with dignity, strength, and an unwavering spirit of gratitude. She saw blessings even in hardship and continued to inspire those around her with her resilience and grace.

Her family would like to extend their deepest thanks to the compassionate staff of Emerald Coast Cancer Center, Magnolia Medical Center, and Destination Health and Rehabilitation Center for the care and kindness they showed Kathy during her journey.

Kathy’s legacy of love, generosity, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held on April 5, 2025, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on the rooftop patio at McGuire’s Irish Pub, 33 US-98, Destin, Florida. The family asks that you bring nothing but your best Irish attitude! In lieu of flowers, they ask that you honor her memory by extending kindness to others, just as she always did.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kathy Stortenbecker, please visit our floral store.