Katherine "Kathy" Helen (Papastavro) Whitely was born in Detroit, Michigan, on March 14, 1949, and went home to be with her Lord on May 6, 2025, with her devoted husband by her side. Kathy was a gifted high school teacher who taught home economics, history, government, geography, and typing. She was known for her wisdom and memorable sayings-most notably, "People are more important than things." Her kindness, vibrant spirit, and occasional stubbornness made her both beloved and unforgettable. She loved her students as if they were her own and was known for speaking the truth with grace. Her joyful presence and lasting influence extended far beyond the classroom. A long-time member of Calvary Independent Baptist Church in Brainerd, Kathy faithfully taught the adult ladies Sunday school class for over 30 years. The women in her class deeply loved and respected her, and she faithfully pointed others to Jesus through both her teaching and her daily life. Kathy also had a passion for cooking, using her kitchen as a ministry-serving others with meals that brought warmth, comfort, and connection to all who gathered around her table. She was also deeply proud of her Greek heritage, which helped shape her strong sense of family and hospitality. She was preceded in death by her parents, S. Nick Papastavro and Christine (Paschal) Papastavro. She is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Dr. Billy "Gerald" Whitely, Jr.; children, Rebekah Van Der Hengst, Phillip Whitely, Beth Baxter, John Whitely and their spouses; sister, Nickie Borodko; loving in-laws; five grandchildren; many beloved nieces and nephews; great nieces and great nephews; and a host of honorary sons and daughters whom she cherished deeply. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and again on Wednesday, May 14, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at Calvary Independent Baptist Church, 4601 North Terrace, Chattanooga, TN 37411. A service celebrating Kathy's life will follow at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday at Calvary Independent Baptist Church, officiated by her pastor, Dr. Jamie Colbert. Interment will take place at Dailey Hills Cemetery in Ringgold, Georgia. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Calvary Christian School's Scholarship Fund.