Kathy Horne Wyatt, age 70, of Rutherfordton passed away at her residence on Saturday, June 20, 2026, after a long battle with leukemia.  Kathy was born in Rutherford County on February 3, 1956, and was the daughter of the late Homer and Marjorie Padgett Horne. 

Kathy was a devoted Christian and lived her life guided by kindness, compassion and a deep trust in God.  She cherished the companionship of her beloved dog and cat, Hope and Gizmo, who brought her comfort and happiness throughout the years.  She also enjoyed doing crossword puzzles and loved music.  Especially the songs and hymns of the great Elvis Presley.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son Timothy Scott Parker, nephews Bryson Horne and Joshua Horne, and Trina Snyder Wilkie a niece-in-law. 

Survivors include her son, Chris Parker and wife Amy of Forest City; her brothers, David Horne and wife Terry of Wilson, North Carolina, Barry Horne and wife Lorie of Forest City; grandchildren Bonnie Parker, Kevin Hardin and Brandon Hardin; nephews, Jeremy Horne and wife Beth Jenkins, Cody Horne,  Jason Horne and wife Heather, Cade Horne and Clifford Wilkie; nieces, Heather Wilson and husband Tommy, Leslie Pierce and husband Bryan, and Jennifer Adkins and husband Jeremy and daughter-in-law Karen Davis

A funeral service will be held at The Padgett & King Chapel on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 5’oclock in the afternoon.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 3:30 until 5 o’clock at the mortuary.  Interment will be at a later date at the Mill Creek Church of the Brethren Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested a donation be made to Kathy's favorite charitable organization Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue, 380 US 221 N, Rutherfordton, NC 280139.

The Padgett and King Mortuary & Crematory is in charge of arrangements, and an online guest registry is available at www.padgettking.com