Kathleen Ronson Petree, 88, of Orange City, Florida, passed away on March 11, 2026.

Born on March 12, 1937, Kathleen was the beloved daughter of Theodore Ronson and Virginia Phening Ronson. She lived a life marked by dedication to education, service to others, and deep devotion to her family and faith.

Kathleen earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Duke University and later her Master’s degree from the University of Central Florida. During her college years, she was a proud member of the Delta Gamma sorority, serving as President in 1958 and forming friendships that would last a lifetime.

Throughout her professional life, Kathleen made meaningful contributions to her community. She served as a Visiting Professor at the University of Central Florida, where she inspired and mentored her students, and as the former Executive Director of the Greenhouse Family Counseling Center, where she worked tirelessly to support and strengthen families.

Kathleen had a passion for life and a curiosity about the world. She was an avid reader and a lifelong learner who found great joy in history and the arts. She loved to travel and explore new places, with memorable journeys taking her across Europe, Alaska, China, Israel, and beyond. Above all, she cherished time spent with her family and held steadfast to her faith.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Theodore Ronson and Virginia Ronson, and her sister, Lynn Seese.

Kathleen is lovingly remembered by her children, Ronson J. Petree and Kimberley P. McKinney; her son-in-law, Kevin K. McKinney; and her three granddaughters, Amelia, Victoria, and Brooke. She is also survived by her sister, Susan Bowen, along with numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews who will miss her dearly.

Kathleen’s legacy is one of compassion, intellect, and unwavering love for those around her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew her.

The family is honoring her wishes with a tribute burial at Deland Memorial Gardens, 10 am Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

Arrangements entrusted with Lohman Funeral Home, Deland Chapel, Florida 935 East New York Avenue, Deland, FL 32724. For assistance, please call 386-736-0021.