Katherine Ewell May

Katherine Ewell May, 91, a longtime resident of the Tuscarora community, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2026. Born on June 22, 1935, Katherine lived a life full of faith, love, and service to our Lord. She leaves behind a loving family: her daughter, Charlene (David Gennantonio), daughter in law, Bonnie May, her granddaughters, McKenzie May (Mickey Ellington), Courtney Gennantonio, Laura (Joe Peters), and great-granddaughter, Milah Peters. She also leaves behind her faithful feline companion, Cora. Katherine is preceded in death by her parents, Charlie and Dennie Ewell, her husband, Charlie May, and her son, Charlie May, Jr. (Chip).

Her family and friends will remember her most for her unwavering faith in Christ and her love for her family. She was a faithful follower of Christ, who prayed diligently for each member of her family and for many others. She was actively involved in church, Sunday School, Bible studies, and as youth leader when her children were young. Her children and grandchildren could always know their needs and concerns were regularly being brought before the throne of God. She was always caring for and doing for others. Katherine knew God gave her the gift of serving others and she spent her life fulfilling that gift. She was a true servant to God.

She enjoyed her career, spanning two decades with Farm Credit, interrupted only by a ten-year stint working with Craven County School System while her children were in school. Even after her retirement, Katherine continued to serve her community, volunteering at the CarolinaEast Medical Center more than 10 years. Her diligence and dedication were a reflection of the verse from Colossians 3:23, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters."

Over the years, she enjoyed traveling with friends and family, spending time with her "Birthday Girls" and Golden Age group. She loved day trips to Bill's Hot Dogs with her best friend, Betty and trips to the mountains with her friend, Margaret. She enjoyed working in her flower garden and sharing her flowers and plants with others. She also loved shopping with her daughter and granddaughters. One of her favorite times was Sunday lunch, preparing a meal and spending time with her family after church.

The family is so grateful to the friends who were so faithful and helpful during her sickness, her caregivers who were with her in her final days, Donna Moore, Debbie Marshburn, Billie Mathes, and Laura Keys, Craven County Hospice, especially Angel, Karen, Martina, and Nora, and other caregivers throughout her sickness, Brenda, Lois, Cecilia, Amy, and Kathy.

Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 18, 2026 at Highland Park Christian Church with Pastors Jason Jones and Rex Bennett officiating. Katherine will be laid to rest at Greenleaf Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Katherine's name to the Craven County Health Department Hospice Foundation.

Katherine's spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who loved her. We invite you to share your memories of Katherine, honoring and celebrating her beautiful life. Her legacy of love, faith, and service will forever remain in our hearts.

Bennett Funeral & Cremation Care is honored to serve the family and friends of Katherine Ewell May.