Kathryn M. White
Kathryn Marie White, 66, of Fountain Inn, widow of William Hugh White, passed away on Sunday, December 15, 2024 surrounded by her family. Born in Oceanside, NY, she was a daughter of Raymond Springsteen Sr. and the late Elizabeth Seppala Springsteen.
Kathy was a strong, loving and caring matriarch, often referred to as “The Queen” of the family. She was the definition of a resilient woman overcoming many obstacles meant to hold her back. Imbued with an exceptional intelligence, she was one of the first in her family to earn a college degree with a bachelor’s in chemistry from SUNY Cortland. She worked hard to ensure her children would have more opportunities and fewer barriers than she had. In that, she succeeded. She repeatedly said how her greatest achievement was raising four smart, funny, “sometimes challenging” children who are excellent contributors to society and who also “didn’t end up in jail!”
No matter her circumstances, she continued to be an extremely hard worker at various jobs (veterinary assistant, paralegal, the Renaissance Fair and tax assistant to name a few), coached youth cheerleading, was a cub scout leader, a mask and mime volunteer and supported academics and a plethora of sports for all of her children. Her home always had an open door policy welcoming anyone to commune or seek refuge, truly making her a loving matriarch to all. This pride and love only expanded when she became a devoted grandmother, preferring to spend much of her free time with her six grandchildren.
Kathy enjoyed cooking and hosting family meals passed down for generations. She was an avid reader, british tv show enthusiast, and often demonstrated a deep curiosity sharing wisdom and stories with anyone she talked to over a cup of coffee or through her strongly written letters. She always showed up with a gift often times crocheted or hand-made with love. Her love for animals often led to rescuing and housing ones that needed it. Even the ones her children mistook for kittens (AKA Charlie the opossum). She was excited to be able to travel the world later in life but her favorite place was when the whole family was together laughing.
Her family is heartbroken from her departure but her perseverance, humbleness, kindness, humor and love in all that she did will be passed on for generations.
In addition to her father, Kathryn is survived by her four children, William White and wife Alyssa White of Fayetteville, NC, Christopher White and his wife Katlyn White of Waterloo, SC, Matthew White ( and his wife Maggie White of Charlotte, NC and Lizzie White of the DC area; six grandchildren, Abigail, Wyatt, Oliver, Griffin, Remy, and Ellie; and three siblings, David Springsteen, Daniel Springsteen, and Michelle Springsteen.
In addition to her husband and mother, she was preceded in death by a grandson, Logan White; and a brother, Raymond Springsteen Jr.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at Cannon-Byrd Funeral Home; 1150 N. Main St., Fountain Inn, SC 29644.
I had the privilege of knowing Kathryn through her daughter, Lizzie. I was immediately struck by her humility, wit and humor. She had a frank delivery with a twinkle in her eye that reminded me so much of my dear friend. I treasured having the chance to get to see where she came from and understand what makes her so special. My sincere condolences to the White family. I’m happy to know you all and I’m sending lots of love.
It is really sad to see my Aunt leave this earth and I am very heart broken about it. I’ve only gotten I see her a handful of times one of them including my very recent wedding which I was very happy she was able to make it. I will miss you very much Aunt Kathy
What a beautiful obituary! I am really sad about her passing and will miss her. It was a pleasure knowing Kathy. To the White family – Tom and I extend our deepest condolences to you all.
Kathryn was a second mother to me. I would go beyond and sat she was my god mother just as her husband was my god father. I grew up with her around all the time and her children were my siblings. She always had a smile on her face no matter the circumstances. She will be truly missed. I hope ur having an amazing time in heaven with my godfather my dad and aunt Diane. You will be missed forever. I love you mom #2 ❤️
I never met Kathryn, but I know and love her daughter. Her daughter’s strength, wisdom, and wit is a testament to Kathryn herself, having raised a wonderful child. However, I did hear funny stories about Kathryn from time to time that made me smile. I think one was about a trip to Italy where Kathryn lost her passport mid trip and had to take a journey to the US Embassy to source a replacement. I’m wishing the White family so much love and condolences as they navigate this sudden and difficult transition. May Kathryn’s memory live on as a source of joy and inspiration.