Kathleen Wilson Duff died peacefully at home on March 19, surrounded by family and friends after a long illness.

She was born June 26, 1953, at Jameson Memorial Hospital in New Castle.

Kathy graduated from Wilmington Area High School in 1971. She was employed as a machinist at New Castle Industries for 39 years. When she retired, she worked at Patterson Excavation for eight years because she still had a strong work ethic and boundless energy. Her friends and family referred to her as "the energizer bunny".

She was raised on the Wilson family farm and lived there all her life. As a child she performed all the usual farm chores, caring for and raising dairy cows, horses, sheep, miniature horses and of course, barn cats. Kathy also helped her parents raise and show Irish Setters and Wire-Haired Terriers. Wilson Farm dogs earned numerous championships, blue ribbons and awards and they sold and shipped dogs to customers all over the world. She was a member of 4-H, was an accomplished horsewoman, and earned a second-degree black belt in Taekwondo.

Kathy never wanted to live anywhere else but the farm on which she was raised. When she retired, she got a tiny tattoo on her ankle of ruby slippers, signifying "there's no place like home". Whenever friends and family visited the farm, she was there for her nieces and nephews and others; taking them on hayrides, helping them catch fish on the lake, showing and teaching about the animals they had and so much more. She was a fun-loving soul, who will never be forgotten by those fortunate enough to know and love her. We cherish the memories of her always making a point to help family and friends, her stories, sense of humor, beautiful smile and unforgettable laugh. She really was that pebble thrown into the lake, because the lives she touched are the ripples that extend into the hearts of those who loved her. If her home in heaven is half as wonderful as her beloved farm, she will be happy for eternity.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, David and Ruth Wilson. Survivors include her husband of 32 years, Michael R. Duff, two brothers, Leland F. Wilson (Lisa) of Montana, David Wilson (Susan), of Florida, nieces Julie Rae Wilson, Sydney Wilson, Colleen Rhodes and nephew Matthew R. Wilson and numerous brothers-in law, sisters-in law, nephews, nieces, and great nieces.

A celebration of Kathy's life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the R. Cunningham Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., where online condolences may be offered to the family by visiting www.cunninghamfh.com.