Laura Kristen (Ottinger) Abell, 55, passed away unexpectedly in her sleep on Friday, August 4, 2023 at her home in Stephens City, VA. Kristen was born June 1, 1968 in Lynchburg, VA. She earned her diploma from Altavista High School (VA) in 1986 and her bachelor’s degree in business administration from Radford University (VA) in 1990.

Kristen was a smart, loving, and kind friend to all, had a big heart, and always looked for opportunities to make things better for anyone in her universe.

In her adult life, Kristen worked for the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) for more than 12 years, then changed military branches and took an accounting position in August 2021 with the Naval Sea Logistics Center, a field activity of the Naval Undersea Warfare Center, Keyport Division (NUMC-K). She was presented with the Civilian Service Achievement Medal from the Department of the Army while working as an accountant for USACE in 2021.

Kristen was preceded in death by her grandparents, Charles & Mary Locke and Jack & Mae Ottinger; and her uncles, Charles Locke, Jr. & Billy F. Smith. She is survived by her loving husband of 17 years, Bruce Lee Abell; parents A.J., Jr. & Carol Locke Ottinger of Maryville, TN; brother A.J. Ottinger, III (Jennie) of Maryville, TN; uncle Jim (Jan) Locke of Rockwood, TN; aunt Linda Ottinger Smith of Maryville, TN; beloved niece and nephew, Sarah Ottinger (fiancé Tyler Smith) of Knoxville, TN and Andy Ottinger of Townsend, TN; and her dearly loved kitties (Lexi, Kensi, and Gus). She also leaves behind a host of relatives and friends who will sadly miss her. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Kristen’s name to the Joyful Heart Foundation https://www.joyfulheartfoundation.org or a non-profit organization of your choice.

Family and friends will gather at Middlesettlements Cemetery in Maryville, TN on September 10, 2023 at 4 pm for a graveside service with Rev. Ron Fisher officiating.