Kathy Smith Obituary

Kathy "Gigi" McKinney Smith

November 16, 1951 -

April 4, 2026

ELIZABETHTON - Kathy "Gigi" McKinney Smith, age 74, of Elizabethton, passed away on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Bristol Regional Medical Center following a brief illness.

A native of Elizabethton, Kathy was born on November 16, 1951, to the late Roy J. and Sue Brockwell McKinney. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Danny D. Smith, in 2022.

Kathy was a devoted educator and retired special education teacher with Carter County Schools, where she dedicated 35 years of service to her students and community. She was a proud graduate of East Tennessee State University, earning her Master's Degree in Education in 1974.

Alongside her late husband, Dr. Danny Smith, they established Physical Therapy Services in 1980 where she continued to be a pivotal part of the business until her death.

A faithful member of Southside Christian Church for over 30 years, Kathy lived a life rooted in faith, compassion, and service. Her greatest joy in life was her family. She was a loving and devoted mother and "Gigi" who never missed a ballgame or special event, always cheering on her children and grandchildren with unwavering support.

Kathy had a heart for serving others. She volunteered alongside her sister for 16 years with the Meals on Wheels program. In addition, she generously opened her pool to the community, helping over 2,000 children learn to swim over the past 15 years. She loved staying active, especially enjoying bike rides along the Tweetsie Trail.

Those left to cherish her memory include her son, Dr. Justin Smith and wife, Kerry; her daughter, Tracey Smith Collake and husband, Justin; four beloved grandchildren, Holsten Smith, Sabrah Smith, Harper Collake, and Knox Collake; her sister, Susanne McKinney Robbins; and her brother-in-law, David Smith.

She is also survived by a host of special friends who meant so much to her: Judy Fowler, Sheila Hartley, Carolyn Taylor, Debbie Blevins, Sue Tinker, Susan Cogan, Irene Lewis, Teresa Niddifer, Tammy Booher, Russ Swaney, Charles Snell, and the PT Squires.

It was Kathy's wish to have a graveside service only. The graveside service will be conducted at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Happy Valley Memorial Park with Mr. Mike Koruschak, minister, officiating. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the cemetery at 2:50 p.m.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Blair Reece, the staff of Sycamore Shoals Hospital Emergency Room, Summer Moody, NP, and the staff of Bristol Regional Medical Center ICU #4 for the compassionate care given to Kathy during her illness.

Those who prefer memorials in lieu of flowers may make donations to the Boys and Girls Club of Elizabethton, 104 Hudson Drive, Elizabethton, TN, 37643 or bgcecc.org.

Words of sympathy may be shared with the family by visiting our website at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home of Elizabethton is honored to serve the Smith family. Office phone: (423) 542-2232