Katherine "Katty" Lefler

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Katherine (Katty) Davis Lefler. She departed this life peacefully at home on September 9, 2026. Born on March 9, 1938 in Charlotte, NC to Dr. Stephen Webb Davis and Kate Jones Davis, Katty was vivacious, loving and never one to shy away from a little fun. She loved the ocean, cherished her friendships, and never left the house without her lipstick on. Beneath the laughter and sparkle, she had a deep and unwavering faith in Christ and a particular heart for serving others, whether teaching young people or volunteering to care for older adults.

Married to Dr. Wade Hampton Lefler on April 1, 1961, at the First Presbyterian Church in Fayetteville, NC, she is survived by her devoted husband; their daughters Ashley Lefler Wilson (John), Kirsten Lefler Ririe (Doug); grandchildren Katherine Ririe Heath (Arin), Caroline Ririe (Cam McNeill), Wade Wilson, Charlotte Ririe, Eleanor Wilson; and great-granddaughter Hadley Heath.

Katty attended high school in Fayetteville, NC and was graduated from The National Cathedral School in Washington, DC in 1956. She attended Hollins College in Roanoke, VA and was graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill in 1960 with a BA in Education. She worked as a 7th and 8th grade teacher at Waughtown Junior High School in Winston-Salem, NC.

Katty was an active member of First Presbyterian Church in Hickory, NC, and a committed volunteer with Meals on Wheels, Bible Study Fellowship and the Hickory Service League. She participated in multiple medical missionary trips with her husband to Africa and Mexico. An avid reader, she was a cherished member of the Belle and Book Club and the Kindred Spirits Book Club.

A celebration of life will be held at Arbor Acres in Winston-Salem, NC and a memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Hickory, NC at times yet to be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Arbor Acres Resident Assistance Fund (http://www.arboracres.org).

Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.hayworth-miller.com