Mary Kathryn Turk Stith

December 14, 2017

CHARLOTTE - Kathy died peacefully at home with her husband by her side on Thursday, December 14, 2017, following a brief illness. She lived enthusiastically, loved life and especially loved being a wife, mother, grandmother and friend.

Born on June 28, 1937 in Charlotte, NC, Kathy was the daughter of Olus Lamar and Clemmie Coone Turk. She graduated from Central High School in 1955 and furthered her education at Mars Hill Junior College and Kings Business College. A long-time member of First Baptist Church of Charlotte and more recently a member of Carmel Baptist Church, Kathy was active in her churches where she and Dave used their talents in many areas. They served as wedding directors assisting with over 300 marriages spanning forty years. She enjoyed time at the beach and developing her painting skills. Kathy worked with Dave in his business, Queen City Container, for a number of years. In 2007 Kathy retired from the job she loved as an administrative assistant at Novant Presbyterian Medical Center.

She is survived by her husband, David Stith; two daughters, Paige Payne and her husband, Lewis and Jenni Marsh and her husband, Jon; three grandchildren, Cameron Payne, Davis Payne and Lauren Marsh; sister Edith Turk Stanfield and brother, Charles L. Turk and his wife, Nora; along with a large number of nieces and nephews.

A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at 1:00 PM at First Baptist Church after which family will receive friends. In lieu of flowers, please honor Kathy’s passion for life through a donation to a passion of your own.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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  • Sandra Page

    I regret I was not in Charlotte last Saturday to share in the celebration of Kathy's life. I was in Reidsville with my 96 year old Mom who still needs visits from me, her only daughter. Paige and Jenni, you understand that Mother-daughter relationship...it's a special bond in every way.
    David, caregiving is not something we ever plan to do, but sometimes we are faced with that opportunity. You were a faithful and loving caregiver for Kathy and that is a forever memory you will cherish for the rest of your life.
    Blessings to each of you as life continues without beautiful Kathy!

  • Kathy Ritch

    I'm sorry for the loss of your Mom Jenni. I am thinking of you today as you celebrate the joy of having her in your lives and how much you loved each other.
    Bless your family,
    Kathy R

  • Linda and Jim Stroupe

    Kathy was a special lady. I enjoyed so much working with her at Southern Bell and what a special time we had when she was my bridesmaid in 1962. She was always so happy and a good friend. God bless her family.

  • Margaret Handelsman

    My condolences to the Turk/Stith family, especially to my dear friend Edie. I met Kathy through Edie several times while living in Charlotte and found her, like Edie, very bright and very amusing. They were a great sister act with that beautiful southern charm. I know she will be sorely missed. Thinking of you Edie.

    Much love,

    Margarita

  • Nora Turk

    As Kathy's sister in law for almost 50 years, my heart is broken to know that I can no longer pick up the phone and let her know of the next family birthday celebration or respond to her invitation to come the her home for a delicious meal. She made pork chops for us a lot ( one of my favorites). She was usually the life of the "party" and set a beautiful table for every season. Through thick and thin I watched as she handled each season of life and learned from her. We raised our children together, first Paige, then Chet, Jenni, Byron and Aaron. What fun !! I could go on but will end with us . " Yet, I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory." Psalms 73:23-24