WILMINGTON — Kathryn Love Ormsby of Wilmington, NC passed away on January 20, 2026.
Kathy was born on November 1, 1964 in South Boston, VA to Dale Maxwell Ormsby and Sallie Robeson Ormsby. She is survived by her mother, Sallie Ormsby, and her brothers Dale Ormsby (Robin) of Wilmington, NC and John Ormsby of Rockingham, NC. She was also the beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews as well as great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Dale “Max” Ormsby, and her sister, Donna Ormsby Nibbe.
Kathy was very dedicated and hard working in everything she did. She attended Richmond County High School of Rockingham, NC where she was the valedictorian of her class and excelled in cross country and track, setting both school and state records. She earned a scholarship to run for NC State University, setting more school records and NCAA records. An accident in 1986 left her paralyzed. Despite her injuries, she went on to finish her degree at NC State and earn a graduate degree in Occupational Therapy from UNC-Chapel Hill. Kathy specialized in the field of hand therapy and moved to Wilmington, NC where she worked for various orthopedic practices, the latest one being Emerge Ortho. She was an accomplished therapist helping so many people to recover the use of their hands. Kathy retired to take care of her mother after the death of her father which she did with such great love and compassion.
Faith was always important to Kathy. Growing up, she was active in First Baptist Church of Rockingham. She attended Myrtle Grove Presbyterian Church in Wilmington and most recently Port City Community Church. She was also very generous with her time, volunteering at church and with many civic organizations as well as mentoring upcoming therapists in her field.
Kathy truly lived up to her middle name, “Love”. She loved her family and was so devoted to all of her nieces and nephews, keeping up with all of their sporting events and activities. She was also a devoted friend to many. Despite her injuries and challenges, she always put others before herself.
Kathy’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the nurses of Novant Hospital for the compassionate care that was given to Kathy.
A celebration of life for Kathy will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 11:00 am at Port City Community Church located at 250 Vision Drive, Wilmington, NC.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Port City Community Church in memory of Kathy Love Ormsby.
