Kathryn Ann Alyea

Published 11:41 am Thursday, May 1, 2025

Tryon, NC-Kathryn Ann Alyea, 76, a fiercely loving soul with a warrior’s spirit, passed away on April 22, 2025, at the age of 76, in Forest City, North Carolina. She leaves behind a legacy built on courage, compassion, and unwavering determination.

Born to Garabrant Ryerson Alyea Jr. and Janet Olcott, Kathryn, known to those who loved her as Kathy, was the only daughter among five children. She is survived by her brother David Alyea and his wife Christine, and was the beloved sister of Brant, David, Bobby, and Peter. Surrounded by strong voices and big personalities, Kathy found her strength early, becoming a force all her own—steadfast, compassionate, and endlessly resilient.

Kathy endured deep loss with extraordinary grace. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Karl Pflumm, and later by her soulmate, James Livesey. Through every challenge, she remained full of love, generosity, and fierce loyalty to the people who mattered most.

She is survived by her son, Ryan Pflumm, whose life she shaped with unshakable love and devotion. Her pride in him was boundless. She is also survived by her nephew, Keith Alyea, who held a special place in her heart, and a cousin, Linda Lovestad.

Kathy approached life with a spirit of adventure and no regrets. Whether she was determined to interview the Beatles in high school, stomping grapes with Francis Ford Coppola, cheering on her son at every opportunity, or inspiring others after enduring amputation and heart surgery, Kathy never took no for an answer. She lived with full-hearted energy and a deep sense of purpose.

She was an active member of the Episcopal Church and a devoted leader in her chapter of the Daughters of the King. Her connection to Holy Comforters was especially meaningful. Through her faith and service, she inspired others with her kindness, commitment, and spiritual strength.

Kathy’s life was a powerful reflection of resilience and love. Her presence made the world brighter, stronger, and more deeply human. She touched the lives of many and left behind a lasting legacy of compassion, conviction, and care.

A memorial service will be held at Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Tryon, NC, on May 10, 2025, beginning at Noon EST, Officiated by Reverend Robert Ard, with a reception to follow.

An online guest register is available at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com

McFarland Funeral Chapel

Tryon