It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Kathleen Feher Smith, lovingly known as Kathy, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, and friend, who left us peacefully at her home on April 10, 2026, after a courageous battle with stomach cancer. Born on October 24, 1964, in Norfolk, Virginia, Kathy was a beacon of love and resilience, whose life was a testament to compassion and dedication.

Kathy was the cherished daughter of Peggy Van Zandbergen and the late Antal Feher Jr. She grew up surrounded by the love of her family, alongside her sister Rebecca Feher Bryner, brothers Anthony Feher, Richard Feher, and Eric VanZandbergen, and her sister Rachel Tate. This strong familial bond would become a cornerstone in Kathy’s life, one she would replicate in her own family.

On December 3, 1986, Kathy married the love of her life, Jesse Earl Smith Jr., in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Together, they embarked on a journey filled with companionship, laughter, and unwavering support, raising four remarkable children: Joshua Smith, Jacob Smith, Joel Smith, and Jennifer Smith. Their partnership spanned 32 years until Jesse's passing in 2018, a union that left a legacy of love and devotion.

Kathy's professional life was marked by her dedication and expertise as a bookkeeper, working alongside her brother and late father at Feher Hoover and Feher in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Her career spanned over three decades, during which she supported many businesses with her skill and integrity. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kathy was an active and beloved member of Reynoldson Baptist Church, where she found community and spiritual solace.

Kathy had a zest for life that was reflected in her hobbies and interests. She found joy in the simple pleasures, whether it was riding her tractor to mow the grass, savoring great food, or losing herself in the rhythms of music. Above all, Kathy cherished the moments spent with her family. Her home was often filled with laughter, music, and the warmth of her seven grandchildren—Serenity Smith, Evan Rawles, Ivan Smith, Colton Smith, Layla Smith, Liam, Smith and Michael Smith—whom she adored deeply.

Known for her tireless work ethic, Kathy possessed an extraordinary gift for making everyone feel valued, accepted, and loved. Her sense of humor, kindness, and generosity left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was a woman who, despite her own struggles, always found a way to uplift others, touching countless lives with her open heart.

Kathy is survived by her loving mother, Peggy VanZandbergen; her sisters, Rebecca Feher Bryner, Rachel Tate; brothers, Anthony Feher, Richard Feher, and Eric VanZandbergen. Her children as well as their spouses and grandchildren— Jennifer Smith, Joshua Smith and Haley Tooley Smith-Evan Rawles, Ivan Smith, Colton Smith, and Liam Smith, Jacob and Nikki Smith- Serenity Smith and Layla Smith, Joel Smith-Michael Smith. Though she has left this world, her spirit will continue to guide and inspire those she leaves behind

A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held on April 18, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Reynoldson Baptist Church. Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Kathy are invited to gather to honor her memory and celebrate the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.

Kathy's life was a shining example of love, strength, and grace. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 304 Main Street, Gatesville, NC is assisting the Smith family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com