Katherine Jo Abel

Katherine Jo Abel, “Katie”, 43 passed away on March 7, 2023 at her home following her struggle with cancer. She was born March 30, 1979 in Knoxville, Tennessee the daughter of John F. Abel and Carolyn (Sloan) Abel Lewis. She is preceded in death by her father, John F. Abel; her paternal grandparents, Fulton H. Abel and Grace (Harrington) Abel; her aunt, Emily Jo (Abel) Morgan; her maternal grandparents, William T. Sloan and Harriette (Weaver) Sloan; her cousins, Bill Valentine, Wendy Valentine and Jimbo Sloan. She is survived by her mother, Carolyn (Sloan) Abel Lewis and her husband William P. Lewis; her sister, Elizabeth (Betsy) Anne Abel and her spouse Svetlana Lesova; her stepsister, Jessica Dawn (Lewis) Kimmet and her husband Matthew Kimmet; she is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Katie began her educational pursuits at Fort Sanders Educational Development Center followed by Cedar Bluff Middle School and proudly graduated to a standing ovation from Karns High School in spring of 2000. Katie lived a life of simple pleasures. Some of her favorite activities as a child were playing in the pool, watching the game show Wheel of Fortune, cheering Betsy on at her sporting events and spending time with family in Huntsville Alabama. Katie was a resident of Open Arms Care for the past 27 years. As an adult she spent time participating in activities at the Open Arms Enrichment Center as well as quality time on weekends and holidays with her mom. The incredibly compassionate and devoted staff of Open Arms effortlessly cared for Katie and created a home away from home for her.  She will be remembered for her contagious laugh, curious nature, mischievous smile and endless ability to love. Her presence in the world taught patience, kindness, and compassion. Her way of being offered a unique perspective to every individual who was fortunate enough to meet her. She will be greatly missed and yet her gift of of kindness will live on in others. 

Family will receive friends from 3:00 until 4:00 PM Sunday, March 12, 2023 at Smith Funeral Trinity Chapel,1402 Tuckaleechee Pike, Maryville TN 37803 with a Celebration of Life to follow at 4:00 PM. Those who want to remember Katie in a special way, may make gifts in her memory to the following: Open Arms Care, 7325 Oak Ridge Highway, suite 200, Knoxville, TN 37931. Please designate “foundation “or “Knoxville”. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com