Kathryn Martus Harris, known to her loved ones as Kathy, passed away on June 14, 2024, at the age of 82.

She was born on Dec. 23, 1941, in Waterbury, Connecticut, and most recently resided in Greensboro, North Carolina. Summers were spent in beautiful East Boothbay, Maine where she found peace and joy. 
 
Kathy was a kind-hearted individual who always prioritized her family and her dogs. Her love for her family knew no bounds, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Kathy was an ardent supporter of the Down syndrome community and especially involved at Peacehaven Community Farm and their mission to connect people of all abilities through inclusive living, learning, work, and play.

From a young age, Kathy was always surrounded by furry companions. She spent time training dogs and riding horses during her life.  She loved all animals and never met an animal in need that she wouldn't rescue.  This love for animals has been ingrained into her kids and will continue on.

Maine held a special place in Kathy's heart, and it was her favorite place in the world. She loved being out on the water, enjoying the serenity of boating.  Kathy volunteered her time at Burnt Island Lighthouse for many years, sharing her love for the Maine coast.

Professionally, Kathy taught 8th-grade math and science at Guilford Middle School. She was passionate about her students' education and made a lasting impact on their lives. Many of her fellow teachers became lifelong friends and visited Kathy in Maine after her retirement. 

Outside of work, she loved traveling across the country, camping and exploring new places. Among her proudest accomplishments, Kathy visited all 50 states in the United States and all provinces of Canada. Her journeys allowed her to experience the vastness and diversity of North America. 

Kathy attended Greensboro High School and later graduated from Campbell College. She was the daughter of Theodore Martus and Beulah Buckingham Morris. Her grandfather Martin L. Martus and her Aunt Ethel Martus Lawther also contributed to her upbringing.  Kathy carried their love and wisdom with her throughout her life.  Her love for Maine came from summering with her grandfather in Boothbay Harbor.   

Kathy is survived by her husband of over 55 years, Leonard Harris and their children Kimberly Harris Abramo (Michael), Anne Harris, and Mark Harris (Angela). She was also a cherished grandmother to Alex, Logan, Shawn, and Tanner.

A memorial service and gathering will be held Sunday, June 23 at 2pm at the Forbis & Dick Funeral Service - Pleasant Garden Chapel, 4601 Pleasant Garden Road, Pleasant Garden, NC 27313.

Kathy will be missed greatly by those who knew and loved her.  In memory of Kathy's life and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Peacehaven Community Farm (1458 NC Highway 61 Whitsett, NC 27377) or a charity of your choice.