Imogene Zornes

Imogene Zornes, née Waddle, passed peacefully on July 15, 2026, in Middletown, Ohio, at the age of 94. Born on January 1, 1932, in East Bernstadt, Kentucky, Imogene was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose remarkable journey touched countless hearts. She left this world with a steadfast faith, going to be with her Lord and Saviour.

Imogene was known for her vibrant spirit and radiant smile. Her gratitude for life and unwavering joy were evident in every room she entered. Outgoing and loved by everyone, she was always laughing, always considerate, and placed the needs of others before her own. Imogene’s independence was a hallmark trait; she remained self-reliant until only recently, when health challenges no longer made it possible.

The center of Imogene’s life was her deep and abiding faith. Raised as a born again Christian from a young age, she never looked back, living each day for the Lord and finding joy in praising God. This devotion shone through every aspect of her life, guiding her through the mountains and valleys with grace and a resolute trust in her Savior. Church was not just a place she visited but the very heart of her being, and her life was rooted in faith, family, and friendship.

Imogene was deeply proud of her role as the matriarch of her family. She took immense pride in caring for her home and the people she loved, cherishing the building of a nurturing and joyful household. She gracefully balanced this devotion with a love of travel, especially cherishing trips to Branson and the Smokey Mountains—journeys filled with wonder and amazement at the beauty of God’s creation.

Imogene is survived by her loving sons, Kenny (Patty) Zornes, Pastor David (Marsha) Zornes, and Jeff (Kim Hager) Zornes; her dear sister, Edna Jacobs; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; and her cherished church family, who played a central role in her life. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Kenneth Zornes; her father, William Waddle, and mother, Martha (née Parks) Lawson; and two precious grandchildren.

She will be fondly and lovingly remembered for her laughter, her strength, her unwavering faith, and her kindness to all who knew her. Imogene’s legacy of compassion, independence, and dedication to God will continue to inspire all those privileged to have shared in her journey.

A Visitation will be held on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 10:30 to 11:00 a.m. at Mueller Hicks Funeral Home & Crematory, 6780 Roosevelt Ave, Middletown, OH 45005. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Sammy Reed officiating at the funeral home.  Graveside services will immediately follow at Woodside Cemetery. 

Imogene Zornes’s warmth, laughter, and example of faith will live on in the hearts of those who loved her. She will be dearly missed and forever cherished.