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BORN
1960
DIED
2025
Katherine Williams-Austin Obituary
In addition to her parents, Katherine is preceded in death by her brother John Roberts Clement (Jack) of Asheville, North Carolina. She is survived by her younger brother John Rasmussen Williams IV (Jaybird) of Pinehurst, North Carolina, his son, Augustus Vare Williams (Gus) of Asheville, North Carolina, and her dear friends Joe, Jennifer, Diane, Derrick, and Kathy.
She will be interred near Jack at Saint Luke's Episcopal Church in Asheville, North Carolina. Per Katherine's request, there will be no service.
Katherine's passions were horses, entertaining, gardening, and ocular health. Many times Katherine managed to combine these passions in unexpected ways. A visit to Katherine's home not only included some of the best food and drink that you may have ever experienced, but also some novel ideas on garden design, a factoid on carriage riding, and an urge to make a preventative eye care appointment (even if you did just have one last week). And if you had the privilege of working with Katherine at Duke Eye Health, you were not just a coworker, you were a dear friend.
It has been said that pets take on the personality of their owners, and Katherine's relationship with her horses and dogs was no exception. The animals in Katherine's life were thought to be unbreakable, a little bit crazy, and possibly dangerous if crossed. But under Katherine's firm guidance and unconditional love, they responded with unwavering loyalty and devotion.
With this in mind, if you happen to come across Katherine in the afterlife, approach her with a healthy dose of caution, as we are sure she'll have her fiercely protective companions at her side: Annie the horse, and her beloved canine companions Jake, Opie, Trixie, and Tracker.
A pack of Virginia Slims and a bottle of Pinot Grigio probably wouldn't hurt either. And please don't forget the lighter.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Katherine Williams-Austin
1 Entry
Linda Johnson
September 23, 2025
I will never forget this passionate red headed lady. I am one of her neighbors and yes... one better have a lighter handy. I will forever hear her voice calling my name . Happy she's finally pain free and resting in the arms of Jesus.
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