Kitty Craven Obituary (1937 - 2024)

In loving memory of Kitty Thomas Craven, a cherished mom, wife, grandmother, artist and friend, who passed away peacefully on December 26, 2024, at the age of 87. Kitty was born on August 5, 1937, in Calhoun, Georgia, to parents Ida and Oscar Thomas. She dreamed of leaving the small town and moving to Atlanta to make a different life for herself. But before she left, she made her mark with her involvement in the 4-H Club, working at the local soda shop and becoming Miss Gordon County. After high school, she moved to Atlanta where she got a job working at Southern Bell. Here she met the man of her dreams, Dennis. Once married, they lived in Macon and Athens before starting their family in Dunwoody. Kitty was very active in the community as a member of the Garden Club, Beta Sigma Phi social sorority and Dunwoody Methodist Church. She flourished in all creative things, but painting became her passion. Eventually she joined and became an officer of The Dunwoody Arts and Crafts Guild. Kitty's participation in art shows, multiple retail locations and events was more than just a hobby; it was a way for her to connect with others and share her love for the arts. This quickly became a family affair with the whole family participating and helping. Her presence at these events was a highlight for many, as she brought her crafts, infectious personality, and humor. In 1994 Kitty opened "Picket Fence," a quaint shop nestled in the heart of downtown Dahlonega. It quickly became a local treasure, offering a unique blend of curated gifts and home décor that complemented her own art. The shop was more than a business; it was a community hub and destination for locals and visitors. Beyond her artistic endeavors, Kitty was a devoted wife to her husband, Dennis, and a loving mother to her two children, Regina (Jean-Francois) and Jeff (Lynn). But her true calling was for her grandchildren Will, Alexa (Matt), M.E. and Trevor. Her family was her greatest masterpiece, and she cherished every moment spent with them. She is survived by her husband Dennis and brother Willis Thomas. She is proceeded in death by her parents, Oscar and Ida Thomas, brothers Grethel, Jack, James and Richard Thomas and sisters, Zelphia Greeson and Mary Ida Chadwick. Kitty leaves behind a legacy of beauty, inspiration, and love. Her spirit will continue to live on through the faces of her paintings and the countless lives she touched. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the community she so dearly loved. Service dates and times will be added once confirmed.