Kathy Howard-Green, born on August 21, 1953, to the late Odell Williams and Mabel Grey Williams (Earp), departed this life on April 16, 2026. She lived a life rooted in faith, service, and love for her family and community.

Kathy was the Founder and Pastor of Flaming Sword Holy Temple of Deliverance in Raleigh, North Carolina. Through her leadership and unwavering dedication, she faithfully served as one of the churches under the Bright Hope Divine Holy Churches of God (DHCOG). She was a powerful woman of faith who found great joy in preaching the Word and uplifting others through her ministry.

In her personal time, Kathy enjoyed watching movies and cooking for her loved ones, often bringing people together through both her meals and her message. She also loved traveling with her sisters, an annual event they called “Sisters United”. Her life reflected her favorite scripture, Psalm 30:5: “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.”

She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved daughter, Jannia Nickelle “Nikki” Griffin (Tony) of Raleigh, North Carolina; her grandson, Brian Joshua Griffin of Raleigh, North Carolina; two brothers, Charles K. Williams (Betty) of Trotwood, Ohio, and Dennis Williams of Durham, North Carolina; and four sisters, Doris Johnson of Raleigh, North Carolina, Shirley Ingram (Paul) of Smithfield, North Carolina, Jeanette McFarland (Arnold) of Clayton, North Carolina, and Angela Grantham-Walker (Andrew) of Stafford, Virginia.

She also leaves behind her longtime best friend, Charlie Green of Franklinton, North Carolina, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and many other relatives, friends, and loved ones whose lives were deeply touched by her presence.

A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held Sunday, May 3rd, at Parrish Funeral Home, 1351 S. Pollock Street, Selma, North Carolina 27576. Visitation will be from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by the funeral service beginning at 2:00 PM. Burial will follow the service in Selma Memorial Gardens.

Kathy Howard-Green will be remembered for her steadfast faith, her servant’s heart, and the lasting impact she made on her family, her church, and her community.