Katie Mae (Gainey) Byrd

Katie Mae Gainey Byrd, 78, of Darlington, passed away on December 25th, 2022 at home surrounded by family.

Katie was born on December 31st, 1943 to the late Ollie Mae and Lawrence Henry Gainey of Darlington, SC. Katie was the oldest of their five children. Katie and the Late Harvey Byrd married on February 16th 1960. They celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary February of this year. They had 3 daughters, Annette Byrd Kemmerlin, Mary Byrd Kemmerlin, and the late Pamela Byrd.

Katie was an active member of the Dovesville Church of God until her death. Katie retired from Darlington County school system after many years of service. Katie enjoyed going to Cherry Grove Beach, spending time with family, crossword puzzles, yard sales and puzzles. Her grandchild and great grandchildren brought her great joy.

Katie was predeceased by her husband Harvey Byrd of Darlington, daughter Pamela of Darlington, son in law David Kemmerlin of Darlington, her siblings Henry "Sonny" Gainey of Hartsville, Virginia "Jenny" Howle, Peggy Gainey and her mom and dad Ollie Mae and Lawrence Henry Gainey all of Darlington. She is survived by her sister Betty Kelly of Darlington, daughters Annette Kemmerlin, Mary Kemmerlin of Darlington, grand children Ashley (Tracie) Clark, TJ (Autumn) Kemmerlin all of Darlington, great grandchildren Landon Owens, Kessleigh Kemmerlin, Dawson Kemmerlin, and Sawyer Clark all of Darlington, and a number of nieces and nephews. Special mention of her sister in law Jean Gainey and special thanks to her nephew Perry and sister Betty Kelly who always was there to lend a hand when needed.

The family will receive friends and family at Belk Funeral Home on Tuesday, December 27th, 2022 from 6-8pm. Services will be held at Dovesville Church of God on Wednesday, December 28th at 3:00pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Regency Hospice care or The American Cancer Society, organizations Katie felt strongly about.