Kathy Whitley Baucom Turner, born on August 14, 1958, departed this life on December 25, 2025. A loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and counselor, Kathy touched the hearts of many throughout her lifetime. She cherished her titles of Mama and Meme.

Kathy cherished her family deeply. She is survived by her children: Rachel (Brandon) Tarlton, Ransom (Ginny) Grover Baucom III, Miranda (Austin) Stroupe, Matthew (Julie) Turner, Jennifer Turner (Brian Campbell), Selena (Vince) Owens, Shane Turner and Jessica (Bryan) Harvell. Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren, including Brooke (Justin) Presley, Bubba Johnson, Harleigh Baucom, Ransom “Levi” Baucom, Tucker Gaddy, Teddyn Smith, Ethan Tarlton, Luke Godwin, Kennedy Tarlton, Edyn Stroupe, Pressley Stroupe, Kasen Turner, Chloe Campbell, Kristlan Turner, Izzy Turner, Willow Turner, Vanee Owens, Tayna Plowman and Justin (Lonnie) Turner. Additionally, she was a proud great-grandmother to Kane Watkins, Jayda Turner, Kendall Presley, and Marlee Presley. She leaves behind nine nieces and nephews who will forever carry her spirit in their hearts.

Kathy’s strength shone brightly as a domestic violence survivor, inspiring her to become a beacon of hope and comfort for others. She devoted her life to helping women in similar circumstances, guiding them with compassion and understanding as a counselor.

She created a safe space for all the children who crossed her path, proving to be a nurturing figure and an advocate for their well-being.

After retirement, her love for teaching led her to homeschool three of her cherished grandchildren, fostering their growth and education with dedication and care.

Kathy had a zest for life that included a love of travel, especially with her sisters Barbara Kluttz, Kaye Penegar, Francine Scevers, Judy Mitchell and Bonnie Gardner. Together, they created lasting memories and shared many joyful moments. A fond admirer of lighthouses, Kathy took delight in their beauty and significance, often reflecting her own guiding light in the lives of others. Her unwavering faith in God was the cornerstone of her existence, influencing her actions and interactions in every facet of her life.

Kathy is preceded in death by her mother, Margie Faye Pressley Whitley Webb; her father, Noah Alexander Whitley; and her sisters Judy Whitley Mitchell and Bonnie Whitley Gardner.

As we remember Kathy Whitley Baucom Turner, we honor her remarkable journey—a life filled with love, resilience, and an indomitable spirit dedicated to uplifting others. Her memory will undoubtedly live on through the countless lives she impacted and the strong familial bonds she forged.

A Memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 10th, 2026 at 2:00pm at The Church of God, located at, 712 North Main Street, Oakboro, NC 28129.