Obituaries

Virginia Rose King (Ortwein) peacefully went home to be with Jesus, surrounded by the love of her daughter and grandchildren.

Virginia was preceded in death by her loving mother, Mary Lou Drake, and her beloved husband, Richard Ortwein.

Virginia loved her family more than anything in this world. Family gatherings were among her greatest joys, especially when they included a packed kitchen table surrounded by the people she loved, a good game of cards, plenty of coffee, and something wonderful she had cooked. She was well known for her cooking and found great happiness in preparing meals and bringing people together.

Virginia had many things that brought her joy. She loved collecting dolphins, watching Western movies, listening to music, attending truck and tractor pulls, and watching hummingbirds. She also dearly loved her beautiful dog, Coco, and her kitty, Bootsy.

To so many, Virginia was much more than a friend, she was a trusted confidante, a wonderful listener, and someone you could turn to for thoughtful advice. People trusted her with their worries, their joys, and even their most treasured secrets. She was considered a second mother and grandmother to many, and she had a remarkable way of making people feel loved and cared for.

Virginia’s love of cooking also became part of her life’s work. One of her dreams came true when she and her husband, Jeff King, owned and operated their very own restaurant and general store in Berea, Kentucky. Throughout her life, she managed several restaurants and worked for many years at Sam’s Club in Florence, Kentucky.

Virginia leaves behind a legacy of remarkable strength, determination, and love. She loved with her whole heart and freely shared that love with everyone she met. She truly had a heart of gold. Her siblings, nieces, and nephews held a very special place in her heart and were among the greatest joys of her life.

Virginia leaves behind her husband, Jeffrey King; her daughter, Mary Goerler; her beloved grandchildren, Megan Goerler (Haley Franks) and Harold Roy Goerler Jr. (Angelica Martinez); her sisters, Dawn Cooper, Robin Jones, Karla Kyker, Venita Smith, and Gloria Carmack; her brothers, Christopher Drake, George Drake, and Vernon Fannon; and her stepmother, Pat Klemm, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, August 24, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m. at Stith Funeral Home, 7500 US Hwy 42, Florence, KY 41042.

Virginia’s life was centered around family, friendship, good food, laughter, and love. Those fortunate enough to have had a seat at her kitchen table, shared a cup of coffee with her, sought her advice, or simply experienced one of her warm embraces will carry a piece of her with them always. Her love will live on in the countless lives she touched.

Online condolences may be left for the family at: www.stithfuneralhome.com.