Katherine Rujean "Herrod" Stolt

Katherine Rujean Herrod Stolt, lovingly known as Katie, passed away in January 2026 at the age of 57 in Dublin, Georgia. Born November 4, 1968, to Johnathan and Peggy Pemberton Herrod, Katie was the granddaughter of Ruby Pemberton and spent her early years in Panhandle, Texas, where she formed the lifelong friendships and memories that shaped her warm and spirited nature.

Katie built a life defined by humor, dedication, and service. She was known for her superb sense of humor-quick, bright, and capable of lifting the spirits of anyone fortunate enough to be in her presence. Katie also served her country with honor as a member of the United States Air Force, a chapter of her life that reflected her courage and deep sense of responsibility. Katie was employed at Carl Vinson VA Medical Center as the interim Assistant Medical Center Director and full-time Chief of Environmental Management Services beginning in 2022. Katie was with VA for twenty years and began her VA career as the Assistant Chief of EMS in the Biloxi, Mississippi Veterans Affairs Medical Center. A Security Police Officer in the US Air Force Veteran, she also served as the Assistant Chief of EMS at Pensacola, Florida VA community-based clinic and as the Chief of EMS at the John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans Hospital Little Rock, AR, VA Medical Center. Katie's commitment to her work was unwavering, and she approached every task and encouraged her employees with pride and purpose.

Those who knew Katie will remember her laughter most of all-how it filled a room, softened a hard day, and created a sense of belonging among friends, coworkers, and family. Her children, her colleagues, and her childhood friends will forever hold close the memories of her kindness, her wit, and the steady friendship she offered so freely.

An informal gathering of friends will be held in Panhandle, Texas, in February to celebrate Katie's life and the joy she brought into the world. Additional details will be announced.

Katie's absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but her legacy lives on in the stories shared, the love she gave, and the countless moments of laughter she gifted to others.

Katie is survived by her children, Madison Stolt of Richmond, Kentucky and Cooper Stolt of Shreveport, Louisiana