Kathy Gay Smith

Kathy joins her father, Lewis Minter, and brother, Christopher Minter, in rest. The family is navigating a unique and profound grief, as Kathy passed away on the same day as her mother, Jacqueline Ann Scott. The loss is immense, but a small peace can be found in the fact that neither had to make the final journey alone.

Left to treasure her memory are Kathy’s brother, Mark Minter, and his wife, Debbie; four nephews and two nieces, Darby Minter, Zachary Minter, Scott Minter, Robert Minter, Joshua Minter, and Jacqueline Minter; 6 great-nieces and nephews; and her best four-legged friend, Jack.

Until recently, Kathy was an Emergency Room Patient Advocate at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. It was a role that suited her perfectly—she was a voice for those who needed one and a source of comfort during people's most difficult moments. However, as much as she gave to her patients, the true light of her life was her devoted rescue dog, Jack. Kathy and Jack were an inseparable team; wherever you found one, you were sure to find the other. Jack was her shadow, her best friend, and her greatest joy.

A Memorial Service for Kathy and her mother will be held at Collins-McKee-Stone Funeral Home, 109 Broad Street, Martinsville, VA, on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 1:00 PM. A reception at the funeral home will follow the Memorial Service.

In honor of Kathy’s and her mother’s lifelong love for animals, the family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in her name to: Angels of Assisi, 725 Franklin Rd, Roanoke, VA 24011.