Photo courtesy of Seale Funeral Service - Denham Springs
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Katheryn "Kat" Smith Haley, 78, passed away Friday, February 2, 2018. She was born on March 12, 1939 in Gillsburg, Mississippi. After graduating from Baker High School in 1951, she earned her bachelor's and master's degrees in education at Southeastern Louisiana University. A dedicated educator for more than 30 years, she found her truest calling when she served as guidance counselor to countless students of the Denham Springs and Livingston Parish communities. Strong, caring, honest, and candid, many former students attribute part of their success to her. A tremendous absence was felt upon her retirement. She leaves behind the daughter she considered her most important accomplishment, Melanie Estelle Haley. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Louise and Terrya Smith; a nephew, Thomas Smith, Jr.; and countless friends, former colleagues, and students. She was preceded in death by her husband, Melvin B. Haley; parents, J.T. and Myrtis Smith; and brothers, Thomas and Luther Smith. Visitation will be held at Seale Funeral Home in Denham Springs, LA on Friday, February 9, 2018 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a memorial service to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes contributions of remembrance to M.D. Anderson Cancer Center or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Mel, your mom was so delightful, funny and charming. It was a privilege to make her acquaintance over the past year.
Katie Lawson
February 07, 2018 | Baton Rouge, LA
God is good and merciful, he keep those who pass on in his memory because they are precious to him. Psalms 116:15.
AC
February 06, 2018 | GA
