Kristen Elise Gath, 41, of Drexel, North Carolina, passed away on Monday, March 16, 2026, after a sudden and unexpected illness.

Born May 31, 1984, in Burke County, Kristen was the beloved daughter of Kenneth and Karen Lingafelt Gath. She was a woman of faith and attended Living Hope Church. As a trained CNA II, she devoted her life to caring for others.

Above all, Kristen was a deeply devoted mother to her daughter, Kenley (17), who requires 24/7 care and supervision. She was her constant support, protector, and advocate, loving her with patience and strength.

Kristen shared a beautiful life with her husband, Barry Banks, whom she married on May 3, 2025. Together they built a home filled with love, faith, and family. She also loved and embraced her role as a bonus mother to Kylie (21), Kassie (20), Jake (12), Jayden (10), and Joshua (9).

She will be remembered for her kind heart, gentle spirit, and the way she cared for others so selflessly. She loved to sing and enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, including cheering on the Atlanta Braves, the Boston Celtics, and her favorite NASCAR driver, Denny Hamlin.

In addition to her husband and children, Kristen is survived by her parents, Kenneth and Karen Gath of Valdese; her brother, Kevin Gath (Anna) of Charlotte; and her deeply loved extended family, including her aunt Sharon Johnston, who was like a second mother; her cousin Brady Johnston (Shay), like a brother; and her cousin Julie Anne Martinat (Trey), like a sister.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in the Chapel of Heritage Funeral Service in Valdese. The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 AM prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to support Kenley’s ongoing care and future needs. Contributions may be made using the link below, scanning the QR code, or by check payable to Karen Gath for Kenley’s care.

Go Fund Me: "Care For Kenley After Losing Her Mom"

https://gofund.me/e6c809443

The family is deeply grateful for the love, prayers, and support during this difficult time.

An online obituary and guestbook are available at www.heritagefuneralservices.com.