Mary Kathleen Bias Barefoot, age 76, of Clinton, MS was called home to be with our Lord on Friday, June 11, 2021.
Affectionately known as Kathy by her family and peers, she was born on October 11, 1944. Her parents, Jesse Jay Bias, Sr. and Doris Nell Gentry Bias of Jackson, preceded her in death.
Kathy graduated with an Associate's Degree from Hinds Community College at Raymond. She spoke fondly of her time at Hinds where she was crowned Miss Hinds in the college's annual beauty pageant, named Most Beautiful, and competed in the Miss Mississippi Pageant.
At Hinds, she also enjoyed performing as a Hi-Stepper under the direction of Miss Anna Bee and was involved in the theatre where she met her future husband, Billy Barefoot.
Kathy devoted her time and energy to helping others by volunteering her professional skills that she acquired as a legal secretary and administrative assistant. She worked at Mississippi College, the City of Clinton and Jackson State University throughout her career. Her beliefs were directly influenced by her parents, Jesse and Doris, who would often make food baskets for their community, and her strong faith in Jesus and His teachings.
Kathy never met a stranger. She had eternal hope for humankind and believed there was goodness in all whose path she came across in life. She was a shining light. If you met her, you would not forget her.
Her strong love for her children was unwavered and unconditional. As a soccer mom in the 70's and 80s, her voice could be heard throughout Clinton. Always cheering at the top of her lungs and praising Jesus everytime one of her children scored or made a good play. Later, Kathy would do the same for her grandchildren, making every attempt to cheer them on as well. She looked forward to soccer and football season and never wanted to miss a game. She taught each of her children to be strong and respectful, to stand up for what is right, to be kind, to follow their dreams in life and to embrace diversity.
Kathy is survived by her three sons and their spouses, Chad and Kristal Barefoot of Clinton, Jason Barefoot and Drew Barton of Atlanta, Alex and Lisa Barefoot of Madison, six grandchildren, Tucker Barefoot, Carson Barefoot, Christina Barefoot, Trace Barefoot, Ashlyn Rutland, and Ansley Kate Rutland. She is also survived by her brother, Jesse Jay Bias, Jr (Butch) of Nashville and her sister, Rebecca Lynn Salers (Becky) of Crystal Springs and her many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.
Visitation and Funeral services for Kathy Barefoot will be held at Wright & Ferguson funeral home in Clinton on Wednesday, June 16, with burial to follow at Lakewood Memorial Park. Visitation will begin at 11:00 and funeral services at 1:00.
In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations to be made in honor of Kathy Barefoot to Stewpot located at 1100 West Capitol Street, Jackson, MS 39203, 601-353-2759, StewPot.org.