Kathryn Rains Reed

Kathryn Rains Reed, age 92, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2025. She was born on July 30, 1933, in Langston, Alabama, to Louise Hodges Rains and McGreer Rains, and grew up alongside her beloved brother, Billy H. Rains. A proud graduate of Albertville High School and the University of Alabama, Kathryn devoted her life to education and the well-being of children and families. Over the course of 43 years, she served as an educator with unwavering dedication. She began her career by founding Kiddie Kollege Kindergarten—the first kindergarten in Albertville—and went on to teach first grade at McCord Elementary School. She later became the first principal of Big Spring Lake Elementary and concluded her distinguished career as the Curriculum Coordinator for Albertville City Schools. Kathryn’s influence extended far beyond the classroom. Her dedication to education touched generations. Many former students stayed in touch, often stopping her in town to share how she had changed their lives. Many of her former teaching colleagues also remained close—lifelong friends who admired her leadership, warmth, and unwavering commitment to children. Her tireless work earned her numerous accolades, including Teacher of the Year, Albertville Citizen of the Year, and induction into the Albertville High School Alumni Hall of Fame. In retirement, Kathryn remained active in her community. She helped establish the Albertville Museum and served as a docent, joyfully guiding schoolchildren through its exhibits. She also played a key role in creating a daycare program at the First United Methodist Church, continuing her lifelong commitment to nurturing young minds. Kathryn was a charter member of the Greenlawn Garden Club, which created the Williamsburg Gardens at the Albertville Library—later named “Kathryn’s Garden” in her honor. Her love for beauty and community helped transform public spaces throughout Albertville. Above all, Kathryn treasured her relationships. She deeply valued her professional colleagues, cherished her close friendships, and adored her family. She was a fabulous mother to her children, David Reed and Joy Reed Moore, teaching them how to make the most of every minute of life—how to make a difference, how to serve, and how to love. She was a devoted grandmother, attending countless ball games, plays, music performances, graduations, and weddings to support her grandchildren with pride and joy. When Kathryn chose to embrace a slower pace of life, she moved to Tallahassee, Florida, to live with her daughter Joy and son-in-law Danny. Even in a new city, her warmth and charm quickly drew people in, and she soon formed a wide circle of friends who affectionately knew her as “Makat,” “Grandma,” and “the beautiful, sweet lady.” Kathryn Rains Reed will be remembered not only for her lifelong dedication to education and community, but for her remarkable strength, fearless spirit, and unwavering determination. She always kept the big picture in mind—considering how her actions would impact others—and worked tirelessly to include and uplift those in need. Her legacy is one of service, love, and purpose, and it lives on in the countless lives she touched and the example she set for all who knew her. Kathryn was preceded in death by her son, David Reed; her parents, Louise Hodges Rains and McGreer Rains; her brother, Billy H. Rains; her sister-in-law, Coralene Rains; and her niece, Jan Rains Smith. Kathryn is survived by her daughter, Joy Moore (Danny); her daughter-in-law, Jamey Whitaker Reed; her grandchildren, Mary Kathryn Reed, Whit Reed (Kali), Jim Reed (Sara), Anna Moore Brill (Chris), and Jack Moore (Catherine); and her great-grandchildren, Aline, Maleigh, Lottie, and Guy Reed. She is also survived by many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews, all of whom carry forward her legacy of love and service. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, September 28, at the Albertville First Methodist Church. Visitation will take place from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., followed by the service at 3:00 p.m. A private graveside service will be held later, honoring Kathryn’s life in the presence of her loved ones. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Albertville Museum P.O. Box 774, Albertville, AL 35950 or Venmo @Albertville-Museum in honor of Kathryn’s lifelong commitment to education, history, and community. Todd Wahlquist is assisting the family with their arrangements (850-385-2193, www.bevisfh.com).

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Kathryn Rains Reed

July 30, 1933 - September 17, 2025