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Columbus, NC– On March 20, 2023, after a short illness, Katharine Howard Taft passed away at age 86.

Kathy lived in Fairfield County, Ct for most of her life and worked both in New York City and for the Connecticut branch of the Arkwright Boston Insurance company for several years before retirement. Kathy was also a dedicated equestrian. She enjoyed hunting with Rombout Hunt and had success in many equestrian competitions.

She retired to Polk County in 1999, where she made herself an important member of the community. She was the co-author of the ‘Cemeteries of Polk County’ with Al Creasey which was why she knew how to get everywhere and knew so many people throughout the county. The book which is still available through the Polk County Historical Association has been a welcome resource to people wanting to learn about their family’s history.

Kathy was also a dedicated volunteer at Sunnyview Elementary School where she helped many classes of first graders get the solid foundation necessary for success.

Kathy served on committees and on the Board of the Polk County Community Foundation, and the Polk County Historical Association. She was the community leader of the Friends of the Library’s successful efforts to raise funds and with the county’s efforts and matching funds build the beautiful main branch library in Columbus.

Kathy was preceded in death by two brothers.  She leaves well-loved nieces and a nephew in Massachusetts and Kentucky, and her many friends in the area.

There will be no service, and we request no flowers.

People who wish to honor Kathy may contribute to the Polk County Historical Association (30 Walker St Columbus, NC 28722), Foothills Equestrian and Nature Center -FENCE (3381 Hunting Country Rd Tryon, NC 28782, or the charity of their choice.

An online guest register is available at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com

McFarland Funeral Chapel
Tryon, North Carolina