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Welcome to the memorial page for

Ada Kathern (McGhee) Smith

March 10, 1942 ~ July 31, 2013 (age 71) 71 Years Old
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Message from Marilyn Guilford
September 5, 2013 11:58 AM

Back in the 1990's, I used to accompany my sister, Miriam Oswalt, and her husband,Ron, a basket handle supplier, (Oz The Stickman)to the Michigan basket conventions. After  many years of not weaving, I was looking for a basket pattern, and came upon Ada's passing . I remember her and send you much sympathy. Basket people were always so much fun. I'll tell my sister, Miriam about Ada. Ron passed on years ago. So sorry.
Message from Lake Cumberland Weavers
August 12, 2013 12:25 PM

Sorry to hear about Kathern. We will miss her.

Lake Cumberland Weavers
Somerset, KY
Message from Sharon Seneker
August 9, 2013 8:02 PM

As a Tennessee Basketry Association charter member I always took basket weaving classes at conventions from Kathern! She was a favorite teacher and will be missed! ♥
Message from Gary and Raena Grishaber
August 3, 2013 8:05 AM

Very sorry for your loss.  We never got to know your mom but knew she was a wonderful woman and mother.  Our thoughts to you and your family.   Love, Gary, Raena, Randy, Halley, Vicki and Skylyn
Message from Royce Parman
August 1, 2013 9:59 PM

Kathern's passing is a great loss to those of us who love making baskets.  She and Bill are major players in the huge growth in the art of basketry--especially in Tennessee.  Kathern was a caring and genuine human being who leaves a huge void.  The best to you Alan.
Message from Bonnie Allison
August 1, 2013 1:25 PM

I am so sorry for your loss.
Message from Suzanne Neas
August 1, 2013 12:52 PM

Kathern was one of my earlier basket teachers, wonderfully kind and patient. At each convention after that one, she always had a smile and hello and chat for a moment.  She was a special lady who will be missed by many.
Message from Suzanne & Phil. Moore
August 1, 2013 11:10 AM

We first met Kathern and Bill many years ago at a Basketmakers Convention in Indiana.  We were new to vending at conventions but they were so helpful.  They told us about the big one in Michigan and encouraged us to attend. This was the start of a long friendship and business relationship.

For the past 20 plus years we have enjoyed our visits with Kathern at the various basket conventions and workshops.  

We will really miss Kathern.


Suzanne and Phil Moore
NC Basket Works
Message from GORDON & TINA JEFFORDS
August 1, 2013 10:10 AM

Allen, Vicky, and Family,

We were shocked to receive the sad news of your mom's passing yesterday when Judy called me while I was at work.
We regret that we won't be able to come for her funeral on Friday.
She was a wonderful friend and we cherish the many wonderful memories we have with her.
We will be making a donation to the American Heart Association in her name.
We pray that God will lift you up.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Love,
Gordon & Tina Jeffords
Message from Ricki Boxrud
August 1, 2013 9:55 AM

Love and prayers go out to all of the family .
I remember when she and I first met, at Allens' trailer Court in Clinton ,Mi.
Alan, you had a broken leg and the two of you were sitting outside,so,being the introvert (Ha Ha ) that I am I went over to you and thus began a long and happy friendship  that has encompassed about 40 years or  more..many memories happy and sad, I will miss Ada K..(she used to scold me for calling her that !!)  She will forever be in my heart.
Hugs , Ricki Boxrud
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