Kathryn R. Clarkson

LESTER, ALA. – Kathryn Mary (Brickel) Robson Clarkson, 95, formerly of Staunton, passed away October 5, 2026 at her residence.

Kathryn was born in Tamaqua, Pennsylvania on November 21, 1930 and was the daughter of the late Pauline Karpovage. She relocated to Virginia in her early years and made her home with Miss Elizabeth Johnson and her sister Miss Edna “Auntie” Johnson who had a great influence on her life while she was growing up. Kathy was valedictorian of her high school class in Dayton. She returned to school later in life to earn an associates degree in business from Blue Ridge Community College. Kathy was employed by Southland Life Insurance and Life Insurance Company of Georgia for 33 years, retiring in 1994.

She enjoyed being active in the life of her church – she was a founding member of Cherryvale United Methodist in Staunton and also attended Nelson United Methodist Church in Arrington. She served as organist in both and participated in the choir and in other activities.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, John Wyer Robson Jr.; her second husband, Elgin H. Clarkson; a brother, Ralph Spitzer; and a sister, Phyllis Negron. Surviving are a daughter, Stephanie Gaston (husband Stan), with whom she made her home for the past 11 years; three step sons; nieces Pamela Nuckols (Duncan) and Michele Bunting (Donnie Hirtriter); great-nephew Skyler Bunting; and great-great-nephew Jaxon Bunting.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 10 in Thornrose Cemetery, officiated by Pastor Jonathan Greer.

Bear Funeral Home is serving the family. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.bearfuneralhome.com.