In Loving Memory of Mildred Ann Koontz Bledsoe

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Mildred Ann Koontz Bledsoe on October 8, surrounded by her beloved husband Ted and her sister Pam at her side at the Marmet Center.

Mildred's life was a tapestry of love and cherished memories. She was preceded in death by her parents, Denna and Gladys Koontz, as well as her sisters, Joyce Wilkinson (Paul) and Sharon Louise. Also preceding her were her cherished sons, Donald and Kevin Ford, and her constant companion and guard dog, Benji.

Left to both mourn her absence and celebrate her remarkable life are the lights of her world: her devoted husband Ted, her son Tim Bledsoe (Denise), her daughter Denise Parks (Ken). She leaves behind a loving family, including her brothers Winfred Koontz (Ina) and David Koontz (Lori Rhodes), and her sister Pam Sarrett (Jerry). Her memory also lives on in the hearts of her grandson Drew Bledsoe, her granddaughters Jennifer Ford (Brandon and Casey) and Jessica Gilbert (Aaron, Landon and Graham), along with bonus grandchildren Michael Parks (Maria), Samantha Parks, and Amanda Parks (Mike). She held dear her aunts, Helen Lanham and Mary Kay Bumgardner, and was treasured by her brother-in law, Carl Bledsoe, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Mildred's journey began at Ripley High School, where she shone as the salutatorian of the Class of 1956. She embarked on a career at GMAC, where she not only found colleagues but also dear friends, retiring from the same company that enriched her life. Her days were painted with vibrant colors and she indulged in a multitude of hobbies, including adventurous travels with her husband Ted to numerous European countries, countless WVU football games, and memorable cruises with her family. Their winters were warmed by the sands of Myrtle Beach, where they enjoyed much of their retirement. Mildred's joy for life extends to shopping expeditions, particularly with her sister Pam, her daughter Denise, and daughter-in-law Denise, with antique store and yard sales being favorite spots.

Mildred's spiritual journey led her to Morris Memorial Church, where her presence and devotion radiated for many years.

A memorial service will be held at Morris Memorial on Saturday, October 28th, at 2:00 pm to honor her memory and celebrate her life with Pastor Ray Stonestreet officiating. She will be laid to rest at the Koontz Scherr Family Cemetery on Fisher Ridge, Highland Farms Road, Kenna, WV. Cunningham-Parker-Johnson Funeral is assisting with arrangements.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes to the compassionate caregivers at the Marmet Center, especially Meghan, Dawn, Brandy and Nurse Farrah who provided tender care during Mildred's final days.