Obituary of Kathryn F. Bosworth

Mrs. Kathryn "Kay" Evangeline Ferguson Bosworth, age 81, passed away unexpectedly Monday, November 19th at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center surrounded by her family. Born in Greensboro, NC, to Evangeline Brown and William Bernard Ferguson, "Kay" had an infectious smile and an ambitious, adventurous attitude. Be it mini-marathon running, backpacking with Girl Scouts, canoeing down the New River, or most recently, traveling Europe, Kay approached it all with an enthusiasm that was uniquely hers, as was perhaps best exemplified by her "anonymously" decorated Christmas tree along the Greenway. Although often reluctant participants, her grandchildren each had their turn assisting in this endeavor, while Ben stayed behind in case bail money was needed. Kay has left her indelible mark on scores of organizations and individuals, some of which include the Red Cross, United Way of Watauga County, Newcomers' and Appalachian Women's Club of ASU, Girl Scouting, Meals on Wheels, and Senior Games. Perhaps the two organizations closest to her heart, however, were First Presbyterian Church of Boone and the Appalachian Cultural Museum where she served as a docent. Kay was preceded in death by her parents and brother, William Bernard Ferguson, Jr. Survivors include the love of her life, her husband of 55 years, Ben; daughters Kathy North and husband J of Mocksville; Elizabeth Clark and husband Jerry, of Raleigh and five grandchildren: Sarah Franzheim of Winston-Salem, James and Katie North of Mocksville, Justin Clark of Oakland Park, Florida and Jeremy Clark of Greensboro, NC. The family wishes to express their deepest appreciation and thanks to the Watauga County EMS, the Emergency Department of Watauga County Hospital, the crew of NCBH Air Care, WFUBMC Security, Roy Alson, MD, the physicians, nurses and respiratory staff of WFUBMC Emergency Department, the staff of 5-C ICU, WFUBMC Chaplains, and countless friends, family and co-workers for their unyielding support and prayers during this difficult time. Our love and appreciation also goes to Rev. Ron Bowie for his friendship, guidance, and spiritual support, and to Carolyn Banzaf, Kay's traveling companion during their numerous worldwide jaunts. A celebration of Kay's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 24th at the First Presbyterian Church of Boone, NC. The family will receive friends from 4-6 p.m. Friday afternoon, November 23rd at Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and after the service on Saturday morning. Floral memorials will be accepted or contributions can be made in her name to the Appalachian Cultural Museum, Appalachian State Foundation, C/O Virginia McMahon, ASU Box 32021, Boone, NC 28608-2021. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com. Austin & Barnes Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Bosworth family.