The family of Southern singer Terri Lynn Kathey is mourning her loss after she was found dead at a Tennessee rest stop. Kathey, known for her contributions to gospel and blues music, was discovered at the Monteagle Welcome Center in Monteagle, Tennessee. She was 71 years old.
Kathey had been reported missing on Sunday, prompting a widespread search. Family friend Kerry Pharr took to Facebook on Monday to share the distressing news that Kathey had not been heard from in 24 hours. According to Pharr, Kathey’s husband, Kevin, had last spoken to her early Sunday morning. She had left home around 4:30 A.M. and made a purchase at a Hardee’s on Elm Hill Pike in Nashville at 6:30 A.M. After that, there were no further sightings or communications from her.
Kathey was reportedly en route to Chattanooga when she disappeared. Her phone was last “pinged” at a cellphone tower near Monteagle Mountain, leading her husband to search the area. Tragically, her remains were found in her car at the Monteagle Welcome Center, a rest stop located just off Interstate 24, the main route between Nashville and Chattanooga.
Pharr later updated his Facebook post to confirm that Kathey had been found deceased in her vehicle. He mentioned that the cause of death was “possibly a heart attack,” though no official cause has been confirmed.
As of now, no details regarding memorial services have been released. The news of Kathey’s passing has left her family, friends, and fans in deep sorrow. Her contributions to the gospel and blues music scenes have left a lasting impact, and she will be remembered for her soulful voice and heartfelt performances.