Kathie Garren Williams, 69, beloved mother, nana, sister, aunt, cherished loved one and friend, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2025. Kathie was a woman who touched the lives of everyone she met with her warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication to others.
Born in Clemson, SC, Kathie proudly graduated from Clemson University in 1977. She received her graduate degree from the Citadel in Charleston before moving to Newport News with her former husband, Bill Williams, where she became an integral part of the community. As a special education teacher and the department head at Menchville High School, Kathie dedicated 42 years to educating and uplifting students, always going above and beyond to ensure they felt valued and capable. Her legacy as an educator is one of compassion, leadership, and unyielding support for the students she served.
Above all else, Kathie’s greatest joy in life was her family. She was a devoted mother to her son, Kyle McEntyre Williams, and her daughter, Chelsie Williams Baxter, and son-in-law, Chad William Baxter. She was endlessly proud of her grandchildren—her grandson, Brayden McEntyre Williams, age 13, and her granddaughter, Bailey Kathryn Baxter, just 10 weeks old. Being their nana was the role she cherished most, and her love for them was boundless.
Kathie shared many years of love and companionship with her life partner, Mike Curtis. Kathie and Mike built a life full of laughter, love, travel, and celebrating life together.
She is also survived by her two sisters, Vicki Boettcher and Jeanie Whitten, and brother-in-law, Tim Whitten. Kathie shared a special lifelong bond with them, rooted in a lifetime of memories and unwavering support. She was also an incredible aunt to many nieces and nephews, always showing up with a generous and open heart. Kathie’s love for her family was immeasurable, and she cherished every moment spent with them.
Kathie’s impact was far-reaching, not just within her family, but in the lives of countless friends, colleagues, and students. She was known for her generous spirit, strength, her ability to listen and offer comfort, her infectious laughter, and sense of humor. Kathie made the world a better place simply by being in it, and she will be missed more than words can express.
Kathie’s memory will live on through her children, grandchildren, family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and the belief that one person can truly make a difference in the lives of others.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Here for the Girls or Lees Friends.
