COLUMBIA - Catherine Griffith Alexander passed on January 10, 2020 in Columbia SC. Catherine, wife of the late Kale R Alexander, was born November 10, 1924 in Hokes Bluff, Alabama, daughter of Samuel Doster Griffith and Myrtle Currey Griffith.
In 1943, during WWII, Catherine was introduced to Kale through pictures from her older brother Bill, both who were stationed in the Pacific. They fell in love by writing back and forth for almost 2 years before he was discharged in 1945. They finally met in Gadsden, Ala., married and moved to Columbia to start their life and family. While Kale played football for USC and attended law school, Catherine worked at the State Mental Hospital in administration and at Fort Jackson headquarters as a secretary. Kale and Catherine, or PawPaw and MawMaw as they were known, enjoyed traveling overseas and annual beach trips with family. Upon Kale’s death, Catherine worked for Kale’s former law partner David Fedor until she was 79 years old. She enjoyed playing piano, football games at the Letterman’s Lounge and was a longtime member of the Gamecock Club. Her true passion was dancing the night away to Big Band music, often attending the VFW 641 Auxillary in Columbia. Catherine was an exquisite dresser with a perfect hairdo, bright red nails and just the right accessories. She was the epitome of style and grace. Dementia stole her mind but never her kind, loving heart.
In addition to her parents, Catherine is predeceased by her husband, Kale; daughter, Cathy; brothers, Samuel Doster Griffith, Jr., William “Bill” Griffith and her nephew, Doc Griffith (Bobbie Ann) all from Hokes Bluff, Alabama.
Catherine is survived by two daughters, Patty Alexander, Mary Alexander; a son, Ted Alexander all of Columbia, SC. ; five grandchildren, Timothy Graves (Michele McFadden), Stephanie Graves Cummings (Jess), Kale Alexander (Melissa), Jacob Alexander; three great-grandsons, JJ Swann, Nolan Alexander, Hunter Alexander, step great-grandson, Allan Cummings; nephew, Bill Griffith; niece, Brenda Griffith Boozer as well as other loving family members in Alabama, Georgia and Florida. Catherine, is also survived by her longtime best friend Dena Light.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt appreciation for Geoff and Anita Graves, for the love they have given to Catherine and her family for so many years
We would like to thank the caring staff of OPUS Post Acute Rehab and Hospice Care of South Carolina who lovingly took care of her. Special thanks to Chaplain Mike Driggers, who gave Mom and our family comfort.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer’s Association or to the charity of one’s choice.
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