Katie Merck Hughes, age 85

Katie Merck Hughes, age 85 of Rutherfordton, NC and a former longtime resident of Lexington, NC passed away Sunday, September 27, 2015.

She was born March 5, 1930 in Rutherford County and was a daughter of the late Clyde C. Merck, Sr., and Minnie Lou Watson Merck. Katie was a member of North Lexington Baptist Church in Lexington, was a former choir member and active in the Senior Citizens Group. She was employed for many years at National Outlet working in retail clothing sales. Her husband, Louye Hughes, and brother, Clyde Merck, Jr., preceded her in death.

Survivors include her sons, Kim Kevin Lowery and wife Sondra of Rutherfordton, Brian Clark Lowery and wife Deanna of Lexington, step sons, Charles L. Hughes and wife Sarah of Ellenboro and Ed Hughes and wife Nancy of Bostic, two sisters, Mary Lou Merck Weeks of Bostic and Judy Merck Martin of Ellenboro. There are also four grandchildren, Ashley Nicole Lowery, Matthew Lowery, Brandon Lowery, and Kelcey Lowery.

A memorial service was held in the Padgett and King Chapel with Reverend Gavin Pratt and Reverend Bob Floyd officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Rutherford County, Post Office Box 336, Forest City, NC 28043

The Padgett and King Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.