Mary Katherine DeCrease

MARY KATHERINE (KOUREY) DeCREASE, 71, of Cross Lanes, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Known to most as Kathie, she was born on August 3, 1953, to the late Solomon and Helen Kourey. A Charleston-area lifelong resident, Kathie devoted herself to her community, her work, and, most importantly, her family. She spent many dedicated years as a clerk at South Charleston High School, retiring in 2015. Kathie was admired for her welcoming spirit, compassion, and steadfast support for students and staff alike.
Kathie is survived by her beloved husband, Robert DeCrease; her son, Christopher DeCrease and his wife Lisa; and her grandchildren, Anthony DeCrease and his fiancée, Tori, and Alyssa DeCrease. She was also blessed with one adored great-grandchild, Ashlynn DeCrease. She is also survived by her sisters, Debbie Gibbs and Sarah Leonard (husband Tom), along with their families, including nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Rebecca DeCrease; her sister, Beckie Kourey; and her parents, Solomon and Helen Kourey.
Kathie will be remembered for her gentle heart, unwavering dedication to those she loved, and the grace and kindness that defined her life. Her warmth, wisdom, and presence will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
A Catholic Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Blessed Sacrament Church 305 E Street, South Charleston on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at 2 p.m. to honor and celebrate Kathie's life. Interment of her ashes will take place at the church following the service.
The family will receive friends from 12 until 2 p.m., at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Kathie's memory to a local charity of your choice.
Gatens-Harding Funeral Home 147 Main Street Poca is assisting the DeCrease family.