Catherine Ann "Kitty" Cleves

With profound love and gratitude, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Catherine Ann “Kitty” Cleves, who left this world after 96 remarkable years – a long, beautiful life defined by faith, grace, and resilience. 

Devoted wife of the late Deacon Joseph A. Cleves Sr. and mother of Joseph A. Cleves Jr. (Mary Jo), Marianne Cronin (Tom), Chris Cleves (Nikki), and the late Greg Cleves (Libby). Loving grandmother of 12 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. She also shared a very special relationship with her niece, Kellie Eckhardt (Chad) and their four children.

Born in 1929 in Ashland, Kentucky, she witnessed nearly a century of change, yet she carried herself with the same steady kindness and strength from her first days to her last. She grew up in an era shaped by simplicity and hardship, and those early experiences formed her gentle wisdom, her appreciation for life’s blessings, and her unwavering belief in the goodness of people.

Her faith was an integral part of her life, marked by her deep devotion to the Blessed Mother, Mary – a devotion that guided her decisions, shaped her heart, and comforted her throughout her journey. For as long as we can remember, she prayed the Rosary daily, offering every joy and every suffering to Mary with unwavering trust. She wore her Miraculous Medal close to her heart and found strength in Mary’s quiet example of obedience, courage, and unconditional love. Her home was filled with rosaries, prayer cards, and Marian statues – simple reminders of the peace she found in prayer. As a wife to a deacon at St. Agnes Parish, she shared in her husband’s love of the parishioners and carried the burdens of many through her daily prayers.

Mom dedicated her life to her family. She raised her children with a firm but loving hand, teaching us the values that shaped who we are today – hard work, honesty, humility, and a deep compassion for others. There was nothing she would not do for her family. Her home was our safe harbor, her voice, our reassurance, her love our constant foundation. When she was home she could often be found outside, tending to her yard and taking care of her beautiful roses and flower garden that was dedicated to Mary.

She leaves behind a family that adored her beyond measure and will honor her legacy by living the values she instilled in us. While we grieve her passing, we are eternally grateful for the gift of her long life, the lessons she shared, and the love she poured into all of us.

Visitation will be Monday, November 24, 2025, from 10:30 am until Mass of Christian Burial 11:30 am at St. Agnes Church. The family has asked for memorial donation in lieu of flowers to: St. Agnes Christian Service 1680 Dixie Highway, Ft. Wright, KY 41011.

May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with those who went before her, wrapped in the arms of God, and forever carried in our hearts.