Kathy Blevins Harris

March 23, 2020

CHARLOTTE – Kathy Blevins Harris

Kathy Harris, 71, died Monday March 23, 2020. She was born  November 15, 1948 in Ashe County NC, daughter of the late Russell J Blevins and Kathleen Neaves Blevins

Kathy graduated from Ashe Central High School. She earned a BS in Mathematics from NC State and an MBA from UNCC

Kathy worked in IT and financial services at NCNB (now Bank of America), Barclays American Corporation and First Union (now Wells Fargo). She retired as: Vice President and Distinguished Analyst at Gartner Inc.

Kathy served on the UNC-Charlotte College of Computing and Informatics (CCI) Advisory Board, the foundation board for the School of Physical and Mathematics Sciences at NC State, member of Women Executives of Charlotte, Women in Science and Engineering (WISE), and the North Carolina Technology Association (NCTA).

In addition to her parents, Kathy is preceded in death by her brother Darrell Blevins.

Kathy is survived by her husband: Rick Harris of Charlotte, her daughter Jeni Frient (Jeff) of Winnetka, IL and two granddaughters Camelin Carter and Aleksandra Carter of Winnetka IL. Kathy is also survived by three brothers and a sister: Mitchell Blevins (Cindy) of Kernersville NC, Linda Pruitt (Dick) of Huntersville NC, Steve Blevins (Sandy) of Crumpler NC, and Garry Blevins of Lansing NC. She is also survived by nephews Kevin, Jeff, Jason, Michael and Daniel and one niece Kimberly.

Kathy was kind to everyone she met, even after Alzheimer’s took her memory. Kathy and Rick enjoyed travelling the world and gathering with friends. Their friendships, some of which go back to their days at NC State, have been a blessing to them both and created an invaluable support system for Rick. A special thanks to her sister Linda and good friend Rosemary Hess who volunteered so much of their time to caring for Kathy in her final days.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that those so inclined donate in her memory to UNC-Charlotte College of Computing and Informatics (CCI) or the NC State College of Sciences Excellence Fund.

A memorial celebration of life is being planned for late summer.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

 

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  • Lydia E. Diaz

    My deepest and heartfelt condolences for your loss of Kathy. I know how much she meant to all the family and how much she will be missed. You were so dedicated to her well being. She was truly blessed to have a family like you all. Never in my career did I see that love demonstrated day to day. She was so beautiful with those big blue eyes that just shined all through her days.
    God bless you all and please stay safe.
    Lydia E. Diaz, Life Enrichment Associate at Aldersgate

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  • Larry and Debbie Ferguson

    Rick and family. Debbie and I extend our condolences on the passing of Kathy.
    Larry Ferguson

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  • Tricia Campbell Shelton

    Rick-Thinking of you at this difficult time. We are in Wilmington, so we wouldn’t have know if Shaye hadn’t told me. Frank and I thought Kathy was wonderful, and really enjoyed the times we were with the two of you. You had such a wonderful life together, and so many wonderful travels. Our hearts go out to you, and will always think of her with that wonderful smile and personality. Big hug. Tricia

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  • Russell Meers

    Hello Rick, I am so sorry to learn about your losing Kathy. I first met her at your home during a really nice get together for drinks at your beautiful home. We then walked to the nearest Chinese food restaurant and had a terrific evening. I have bumped into the two of you at your high school reunion as well as after attending a local play. I know how much she meant to you. You were a perfect couple. Both very smart and both charming. I will let my brother George know of your loss. You were the President of your senior class and as you remember my brother was the Vice President. You too made a good pairing. I know this news of Kathy passing will make him a bit sad, but I know you will be in his thoughts and prayers just as you are in mine. May your sweet memories of Kathy bring many smiles to your face as I am sure those memories have done throughout your entire life. God bless you, Rick. Your friend, former classmate, and teammate. Russell Meers

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  • Terry Cox

    Rick, I’m very sorry to hear about the loss of your soulmate, Kathy. She always lit up talking about your travels together. Kathy is largely the reason I have enjoyed serving on the UNCC CCI Board for many years. She was a trailblazer for that board, always with innovation as top of mind.

    I will miss her intelligence, guidance, and bold leadership delivered with such grace and humility. She is one of a kind, whose spirit will forever remain in my heart.

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  • Barbara Gaddy

    Rick, please accept my deepest sympathy at Kathy's passing. I will always remember her charm and kindness the few times we had to meet at your place to do GEF business. She was so proud and happy to show me your lovely home. Her kindness will always be remembered. I am ever so grateful to have spent time with her. I am sincerely sorry for your loss.

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  • Kim Croker

    Kathy was a Gartner colleague. What an amazing analyst and speaker. She will be missed!

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  • DAVE RODGERS

    I worked with Kathy at NCNB. We were promoted to officer at the same time. I remember she and I and the other new officers visited the 40th floor of the NCNB plaza to meet the executives (Storrs, McColl, Lewis, etc.). Seems we had such fun meeting the people who ran the bank. Years later Kathy became one of the people running First Union. About 15 years ago I was running on Euclid Ave, beside her and Rick's new house. Kathy saw me, spoke and we spent the next 10 minutes chatting and catching up. She was such a sweet and kind person. I thought the world of her.

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  • Deanie Kirby

    Dear Rick, my heart is heavy at Kathy’s passing. My prayers for you and the family. Kathy was a wonderful lady that captured your heart. She was everything to you and my heart breaks for your loss. I’ll always love you and thank you for all you taught me dear friend!

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  • Bobby & Julie Broome

    Our thoughts and condolences go out to Rick and the family.

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