Kathy Lynn “NaNa” Hanson
Chelsea

Kathy Lynn “NaNa” Hanson, 64, of Chelsea, was embraced by God on Saturday, June 23, in Knoxville, Tennessee. After her valiant fight with multiple myeloma since 2004, the Lord decided to call her home. Her strong will to live, unwavering faith in God, and the love and prayers of family, friends, and many supporters carried her through these years.

Kathy was born in Columbus, Ohio to the late Walter and Grace Ritchason on April 27, 1954. As the youngest child, her Daddy called her “Peanut” as he wrapped his arms around her. Kathy married and lived all over the world while raising her family and eventually settled in Ozark. She later relocated to Callaway, Florida where she became a Corrections Officer. In 2007, Kathy moved to Birmingham, and eventually Chelsea, to be closer to her daughter.

Throughout her life she maintained a sweet and comforting demeanor that won the trust and hearts of many, who even now are being changed by her witness of constant nurturing love and faith. Kathy loved to crochet. She could make anything, but her favorites were little animals and blankets that her family can cherish. A woman of faith and the rock of the family, Kathy shaped their spirituality by her tireless Christian example.

With a real zest for life, she loved to write poetry, read, play games/cards – especially with her grandchildren, and chat with friends and family. Her family enjoyed renting an U-Haul just to transport all of her DVDs to her. However, her signature gift of unconditional love, shown through her constant smiling, laughter, and joking around, will never be forgotten.

Kathy’s family meant everything to her. She is preceded in death by her parents, Walter “PaPaw” and Grace Ritchason; her siblings, Kellie Smith and Robert “Bobby” Ritchason.

She is survived by her son, Michael Lawhorn; daughter Michelle “Shellie” Palmer and husband Adam; grandchildren, Alex and Avery Lawhorn, Adalynn and Tyler Palmer; siblings, Connie Roberts, Jim Ritchason and wife Faye, and Briley Ritchason; many beloved nieces and nephews, including Crystal Smith and Dawn Ritchason-Ferrell; honorary daughter, Rebekah Jackson and husband Keith; honorary grandchildren, Leah, Keith II, and Kiana Jackson; great grandchildren Eli and Alyssia.

Though NaNa (pronounced Ney-Ney) will be extremely missed, her family and loved ones are happy to know she is at peace and suffering no more.

A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held on Saturday, July 14 at 4 p.m. at Rose Mortuary Mann Heritage Chapel with Rev. Dr. Alan Smith officiating. The family will receive friends from 3-4 p.m. at Rose Mortuary Mann Heritage Chapel, 6200 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919.

Online condolences may be made at Rosemortuary.com.