Kathleen Susan Kiehl-Huber

Obituary for Kathleen Kiehl-Huber (née Rafferty)

March 22, 1940 - May 14, 2026

Kathleen Kiehl-Huber, age 86, of Copley, Ohio, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026, following a long illness, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.

Born on March 22, 1940, in Barberton, Ohio, to the late Opal and Tim Rafferty, Kathleen lived a life filled with warmth, kindness, and determination. A woman of remarkable grace and drive, she built a long and successful career as a realtor, helping countless families find places to call home.

More than her professional accomplishments, Kathleen will be remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She was the proud mother of three daughters and found her greatest joy in her family-cherishing every opportunity to gather, laugh, and share her love.

Kathleen had a zest for life and an appreciation for life's simple pleasures. She loved gardening, traveling, cooking hearty meals for guests, and sharing stories over a friendly game of cards or dominoes. A faithful fan of the Cleveland Guardians and a subscriber to Broadway performances for more than 25 years, she appreciated both the drama of the stage and the thrill of the game. Her mornings were often spent reading the newspaper, and her evenings were never complete without watching the news.

With her classy style and compassionate spirit, Kathleen brought warmth and generosity to everyone who crossed her path. She was a devoted member of Lakeview Christian Church in Akron, where her faith anchored her life.

Kathleen is survived by her beloved daughters, Kimberly (Ron) Sabo and Pamela (Brian) Conover; her son-in-law, Reg Thayer; her treasured grandchildren, Joshua and Alexis Sabo, Madelaine (Trent) Fagrell, and Abigail Conover; her dear sister, Regina Vinson; her cherished stepchildren and extended family; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Tim and Opal Rafferty; her daughter, Valerie Thayer; her first husband, Ben Kiehl, the father of her three daughters; and her late husband, Leonard Huber.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Kathleen's life at Hummel Funeral Home, 3475 Copley Rd., Copley, Ohio. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, May 21st from 4-7 p.m., and the funeral service will follow on Friday, May 22nd at 1:00 p.m., with interment at Greenlawn Cemetery on Romig Road in Akron, Ohio.

Kathleen's warmth, laughter, and enduring love will remain in the hearts of all who knew her. Her legacy lives on through her family and the many lives she touched with her grace and spirit.