Katharine Virginia Rice Smith

Published 2:55 pm Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Katharine Virginia Rice Smith passed away peacefully Sept. 10, 2018, at the age of 80, in her beloved home after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Surviving are her daughters, Lisa Walker (Mike) and Marina Collier (Scott Pierson); grandchildren, Amy Wood (Wesley) and Brad Walker (Stephanie); great-grandchildren, Jacob, Jorja, Jackson and Hudson; brothers, Robbie and Jim Smith; chosen daughter, Patty/Rashmi Cole; her boys, James and Gary; and her best dog friend, Blink. 

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Arlette Collier; and parents, Elizabeth RB Smith and Paul Kenneth Smith.

Katherine was a graduate of UCLA earning her Ph.D. in philosophy in psychology. She practiced in California for many years, and moved to Charleston, South Carolina.

She worked for the department of juvenile justice for 11 years before she retired, and moved to her adored town of Tryon, North Carolina.

She was active in local politics, community affairs, a huge supporter of arts and music; she was especially proud of the time spent towards the Nina Simone Plaza project. She was an accomplished painter, enjoyed designing jewelry, visiting the Lanier Library (she always had a book on hand); but her most precious moments were spent with all her wonderful friends.

A memorial service will be held in Tryon at a later date. Details will be announced.