Kathryn “Kathy” Spurgeon Marsha, 63, beloved mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend was welcomed into the gates of heaven on February 8th, 2024. She courageously battled Multiple Sclerosis for over 40 years with faith and perseverance. However, she never allowed the challenge to overshadow her love for the Lord and zest for life. She represented all that is good, bright, and beautiful in this world.
Born on August 9, 1960, in Ithaca, New York, Kathy was the daughter of Dr. John H and Nancy Lee Spurgeon. Their family moved to Columbia, South Carolina and has called it home since 1966. She was a graduate of Dreher High School where she excelled in Tennis, won statewide competitions, and was number one on the varsity team all four years. Kathy graduated from The University of South Carolina in 1982, receiving a degree in Journalism; she was a proud Kappa Delta alumna, where she made many lifelong friends. Kathy considered her role as mother to her two girls her greatest accomplishment.
In addition to her parents, surviving are her daughters, Mary Kathryn McWilliams (Robert Hall, Jr.) and Stephanie Theodore (Nicholas Andrew, II); her grandchildren, Madelyn, Hall, and Clara McWilliams and Andrew and Kit Theodore; her sister, Janie Adams (Doug); brothers, Bill Spurgeon (Janine); and David Spurgeon (Jackie); and her treasured nieces and nephews. Kathy is also survived by her beloved and dedicated caregivers, Jennifer Ashley, Charla Grant, Janie Powell, and the many dear friends she considered family.
MS did not define Kathy. What did define her was her love for her family and the Lord. She was an incredibly loving mother and found an even deeper adoration in her role as Kay Kay to her grandchildren. She was happiest when spending time with her family and many friends, and her joyful presence was undeniable. She was the epitome of grace, strength, and joy, and never met a stranger.
In her spirit of giving, Kathy is an organ donor for the MS Brain Bank at Columbia University of New York. Her priceless donation will further research in hopes of improving treatment and finding a cure for MS. Contributions can be made in Kathy’s honor to Saint Joseph Catholic School Library, 3700 Devine St Columbia, SC 29205, where she spent countless hours reading with children.
The family would like to thank the dedicated Laurel Crest staff, Lighthouse Hospice, Lexington Medical Center physicians, nurses, and all of the many caregivers who provided compassionate care over the years.
A celebration of life will be held at her childhood church, Eastminster Presbyterian Church, on Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at 11:00 am. A visitation will follow the celebration of life at Thompson Hall. The interment will be private.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13.
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