Kathleen Shuford Black of Pinehurst, North Carolina, passed away Sunday, May 24th, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family after a life defined by strength, resilience, joy, and unwavering love for those closest to her. Kathleen was born in Washington, D.C. and spent her younger years growing up in Bennettsville, SC, until she moved to Moore County in 1974.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Gladys Murrell Shuford and Harry Powe Shuford, and by her son-in-law, Tyler Tolbert. She is survived by her daughter, Erica Black-Tolbert; her beloved grandsons, Pierson and Harold, who were the absolute lights of her life; her former husband, Keith Black; and her brothers, Jimmy Shuford and Billy Shuford.
Family meant everything to her. She was immensely proud of her family’s history and heritage, including her ancestral grandfather, General Henry William Harrington, who served as a Brigadier General in George Washington’s Army during the Revolutionary War. She was in the process of applying for membership to the Daughters of the American Revolution, something that brought her great pride and excitement.
She loved life fully and fiercely. Whether it was sunshine at the beach, afternoons by the pool, beach music playing, or dancing the shag, she found joy in the simple moments and shared that joy effortlessly with others. She had a rare gift for making people feel special — through thoughtful cards, perfect gifts, kind words, and the warmth she carried everywhere she went. Her laughter, happiness, and love were contagious.
As a mother and grandmother, her devotion knew no bounds. She spent countless hours driving Erica all over the state for pageants, voice lessons, and every opportunity imaginable, always encouraging dreams and cheering the loudest from the sidelines. Later, she poured that same love into her grandsons, Pierson and Harold, whom she adored beyond measure.
She was truly tough as nails. Throughout her life, she overcame challenges that would have broken many others — surviving two devastating car accidents, courageously beating Stage 4 breast cancer, and enduring numerous health setbacks with determination and grit. Even through hardship, she continued to love fiercely, work hard, and care deeply for others.
She dedicated 27 years to the State Employees’ Credit Union, where she served proudly as Head Teller. In the later years of her life, she built a successful cleaning business and became known for her perfectionism, work ethic, and loyal clientele, including managing several Airbnb properties throughout the area. She took immense pride in everything she did.
She also had a deep love for animals, especially her beloved dogs, and supported animal welfare whenever she could.
A service celebrating her life will be held at Culdee Presbyterian Church on Wednesday, May 27, at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Moore County Humane Society, a cause close to her heart.
She leaves behind a family and community who will forever miss her strength, her spirit, her laughter, and the way she made everyone around her feel loved.
Online condolences may be made at www.BolesFuneralHome.com
Services are entrusted to Boles Funeral Home of Pinehurst.
