Kimberly Ann Carden

Kimberly Ann Ison Carden, known for her unwavering love of family, community, and the hills of Eastern Kentucky, passed away peacefully at home, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, strength, and dedication. Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, Kim spent her early years in Homestead, Florida, before settling in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. Her summers, however, were always spent in Appalachia, a place that remained close to her heart throughout her life.

Kim was a devoted wife to Michael Scott Carden, who preceded her in death. Together, they built a loving home and raised two children: Bryce Macauley Carden, of Louisville, and Makenzie Leigh Magner, of Minneapolis. Kim was a proud grandmother to Oaklynn Rae Carden, whose laughter and joy brightened Kim's world. She was preceded in death by her parents Monzel Brown and Wendell Ison. Kim is survived by her children and their spouses, Caitlynn Carden (Bryce) and Evin Magner (Makenzie), who were embraced as part of the family with love and compassion. Kim is also survived by her devoted and loving sister, Debra Fields Ison. Malorey Webb (Jody), Brandon Fields (Ashley) and Cameron Fields (Megan) and grand nieces and nephews. Kim is also mourned by a loving extended family, including a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins, whose lives she touched deeply. Their memories of shared family gatherings and her generous spirit will forever remain in their hearts.

Her role as a mother was one of Kim's greatest sources of joy and fulfillment. She celebrated every milestone of her children’s lives with pride, cheering on Bryce from the baseball stands and his career with the Louisville Fire Department and watching with admiration as Makenzie traveled the world. Kim found comfort and joy in witnessing their growth and success, and her unwavering support was a cornerstone of their accomplishments.

Kim’s passion for education was evident in her long career as a 7th-grade English teacher. Her classroom was a space where students were encouraged to think critically, push boundaries, and appreciate the world around them. She found joy in challenging her students' perspectives, often incorporating lessons about other cultures and the beauty of nature on field trips to Pine Mountain Settlement School. She was also particularly dedicated to supporting the school's news studio, always finding new ways to engage her students and foster their creativity.

Beyond the classroom, Kim was actively involved in her community. Her volunteer service with local nonprofits, including Louisville Metro Animal Services and other various rescue organizations, reflected her deep love for animals. She found great purpose in fostering many dogs and cats and transporting them to loving homes. Kim often said that the joy of giving a pet a second chance at life was one of her greatest rewards.

Kim cherished her roots in Eastern Kentucky, returning often with her children and students to share the traditions and stories of her childhood. She would reminisce about summers spent exploring the hills and hollers, a place where she felt most at peace. She shared these experiences with others in hopes they too would appreciate the beauty and heritage of the region she so deeply loved.

Throughout her life, Kim cultivated close and lasting friendships. She valued the relationships she built and took great pride in being a source of support and comfort to her friends. Whether it was traveling with her sister or enjoying a beach vacation with Mike and friends, these moments with loved ones were the foundation of Kim’s happiest memories. Her friends were not just a part of her life—they were a family she held dear.

A small private service was held for her family under the gingko tree in Cave Hill Cemetery, where her and Mike spent many mornings walking through the beautiful grounds. She was cremated and will be interred in the nearby mausoleum alongside her husband, allowing loved ones to visit the ginkgo tree when they are thinking of her. In her memory, donations can be made to LMAS’ Animal House, reflecting her lifelong commitment to the welfare of animals.

Kim’s memory will live on through the lives she touched—her children, granddaughter, sister, nieces & nephews, friends, students, and the countless animals she fostered. She will be remembered for her fierce love, her dedication to teaching, and her boundless compassion