Katy Carol Stanberry

December 23, 1944 - February 23, 2024

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Katy Carol Stanberry, 79, loving wife of Ralph Stanberry, slipped away peacefully with no distress Friday, February 23, 2024.

Born in Durham, NC, she was the daughter of the late Julius and Reva Reeves Sayles.

As an art teacher in public schools, she loved her students and touched many lives. At the mall or grocery store, usually a former student would approach and say, “Hi, Mrs. Stanberry, remember me?” And Katy would always call the student by name, saying “Of course I remember you.”

She is survived by her beloved husband, Ralph Stanberry; daughter, Leslie Haynes and husband, Ryan; son, Cameron Stanberry and wife, Kelli; grandson, Connor Haynes; and granddaughter, Maddie Stanberry.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Alzheimers Association by visiting http://www.alz.org

Friends are encouraged to share their favorite memories of Katy with the family by clicking on the button labeled “Leave A Message, Share A Memory” below.

Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes

Robert and Patricia Stanberry

Larry & Debra Benner

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Katy Carol Stanberry, 79, loving wife of Ralph Stanberry, slipped away peacefully with no distress Friday, February 23, 2024. Born in Durham, NC, she was the daughter of the late Julius and Reva Reeves Sayles. As an art teacher in public schools, she loved her students and touched many lives. At the mall or groceryContinue Reading

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I went to high school with Katy ,Canton class 63 .Remember her as being smart and beautiful. She was also one of my Facebook friends. Condolences to the family.

Katy and I practiced yoga together for years and I was immediately drawn to her by her kindness and sweet spirit in class. I have so many memories of her. She was a fashionista and no matter where she was or what she was doing she always looked great. She was a creative and talented artist--I'm fortunate to have 2 pieces of hers and I think of her every single time I look at them. She was a good friend and lunch buddy who was always so generous with her encouragement when I was just starting out as a yoga teacher. Katy was a unique, special person who was so loved. I will miss her so much.

I was fortunate to enjoy many yoga classes alongside Katy. She was the most warm, wonderful person with boundless creativity. Katy helped me plan a farewell party for our studio owner, and I was blown away at her ability to create magic in the room with basically no budget! She had a mischievous, witty sense of humor that was contagious. Katy was such a joy to all, and a positive, uplifting human being.

In memory of Katy Carol Stanberry, Robert and Patricia Stanberry lit a candle

Your mom and I had so much fun as we were watching our daughters grow up at Holy Cross. I hadn't seen her in many a year but for a long time we talked on the phone every once in a while. She was a sweet sweet spirit that I'm glad to have had in my life. Blessings as ya'll begin to walk this new path on your life's journey without her presence. Hugs, Trisha

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

My heart goes out to your sweet family! I love having the same favorite color (purple) with Katy. She introduced me to my favorite cold Starbucks drink-Strawberries and cream Frappuccino! She also introduced me to tortellini with basil pesto on our fabulous girls’ beach trip. She will be truly missed, but the memories will live on with me forever!

I took Mrs Stanberry’s art class at Riverside Middle School in 6th grade. She was kooky and kind, sensitive and creative — a bright light in an otherwise often cold and strict environment. I know she must have made hundreds of kids feel seen and understood during her time there. I’m sorry to hear she suffered in recent years, but glad to know she was surrounded by love and support. My condolences to her family and friends, I can only imagine the light she must have shown on those closest with her. ❤️💛💙

Katy and I collaborated on several interdisciplinary ELA/Art projects when we were both at Riverside Middle School. We worked well together, traveled together, presented our work at state and national conferences—and had so much fun. Our students participating in the unit activities (sixth and eighth graders) had amazing learning experiences, but Katy and I benefitted too. For me, Katy was the colleague every teacher dreams of having next door or just down the hall, and she had a profound influence on my growth as an educator. Best of all, Katy was my friend. She was a gentle, creative, loving soul. I will miss her.

In memory of Katy Carol Stanberry, Larry & Debra Benner lit a candle

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.