AUGUSTA, Ga. – A falling tree felled by Hurricane Helene struck and killed Katherine Barnett McCall, 62, on September 27, 2024, authorities confirmed. The incident occurred as the storm, downgraded from a Category 4 hurricane after making landfall in Florida, moved through Georgia.
McCall, known as “Kat” to friends and family, died in Augusta, Georgia. She was born December 2, 1961, in Athens, Georgia, while her parents were students at the University of Georgia. A celebration of life was held at Reid Memorial Presbyterian Church on October 19, 2024, followed by a reception at Augusta Country Club, according to an obituary posted by Thomas Poteet & Co.
The death is among the earliest reported fatalities attributed to Helene as it moved inland. Month-old twin boys were identified as the youngest known victims of the hurricane, according to a post on Facebook by journalist Kaitlyn Ross on October 3, 2024.
Hurricane Helene caused widespread damage across the region. Augusta National Golf Club, home of the Masters Tournament, sustained damage, and officials were assessing the extent of the impact on September 28, 2024, according to club chairman Fred Ridley. Ridley stated the club’s focus was on its staff, neighbors, and business owners in the Augusta community.
A weekend event hosted by Warren Baptist Church and other area churches, featuring Bible teacher Jennifer Rothschild and guests Ann Voskamp and Michael O’Brien, went ahead as scheduled on October 19, 2024, despite the recent devastation. The event was held at 3203 Washington Rd., Augusta, GA 30907.
McCall spent much of her childhood in Newnan, Georgia, with her sisters, Ivey and Allie. She developed an early interest in painting and photography and was remembered for her hospitality, often bringing breakfast to the bus stop. Prior to graduating from Newnan High School in 1980, she formed a close friendship group known as the “WDWs.” She attended Converse College.
