Katie "Kitty" Ledford Cook

Shelby: Katie “Kitty” Ledford Cook, completed her heavenly journey on June 8, 2025, at the age of 95. Born on January 26, 1930, in Cleveland County, she lived her life with a generous heart and a nurturing spirit.

Katie was known for her dedication and hard work. She began her career as a Lab Technician in the textiles industry, where she was respected for her attention to detail and commitment to quality. Later, she brought her talents to Belk, and finally, she found joy working in childcare at Especially for Kids, where her loving nature shone brightly and made a lasting impact on many young lives.

Her interests were as vibrant as the flowers she loved to cultivate. Gardening and cooking were her passions, through which she expressed love and creativity. Known to be a giving person, she found immense joy in sharing the fruits of her labor with family and friends.

A devoted member of Calvary Baptist Church in Shelby, Katie's faith played a central role in her life. Her active involvement in the church community was a testament to her unwavering devotion and generosity of spirit.

Katie was the youngest of nine children, predeceased by her beloved husband, Ambrose Cook; parents, David Cleodus Ledford and Katie Bell Rowe Ledford; grandson, Lewis Harold "Bee Jay" Dobbins; three sisters, O.V. Wright, Opal Smith, Inez Hoover; and five brothers, David, Willard, Olen, Talmadge, and Raymond Ledford.

She leaves behind a loving legacy through her daughter, Ambra Cook Dobbins (Buster) of Shelby; grandson, Lucas Dobbins of Shelby; great-grandson, Declan Dobbins; and a host of dear nieces and nephews, including Martha Sue Wease (Benny), John Ledford (Rita), Carroll Ledford (Clara Ann), Terry Church (Jimmy), Berdie Weist (Bob), Dawn Moses, Dale Wright (Linda), Kathy Mellon, Roger Ledford (Cindy), Dennis Ledford, and Sheila Jolley.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at 3:00 PM at Cleveland Memorial Park, officiated by Dr. Rick Bowling. Friends and family are invited to greet one another afterwards as they celebrate the life of a remarkable woman.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. For donations by check, please make payable to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Katie’s enduring kindness and love will continue to inspire all who knew her, leaving behind an indelible mark on their hearts.

Funeral services are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center www.claybarnette.com