Katherine Irine Akridge

Augusta, Ga – Mrs. Katherine Irine Akridge (Kathy Cooper), 78, entered into rest December 31, 2025.

Kathy was born June 3,1948, to the late Martha and Cecil Cooper. She attended The Academy of Richmond County and was a lifetime resident of the Augusta area. She was a lover of all animals. An avid volunteer of the Augusta Humane Society, Aiken ASPCA and other animal rescue agencies in the CSRA, she helped foster and home as many animals as she could. She was a part of her neighborhood watch. Kathy loved spending time outdoors tending to her flowers and plants. She loved her family, her animals and her flowers.

Through the years Kathy has rescued many animals including a trio of raccoons that she cared for, until releasing them into the wild on private property. She also rescued a squirrel, that she loved greatly as well as many birds. One was most memorable and known as Harley the African Grey. He would tell you how he felt with his explicit language, along with his love for making phone ringing sounds and answering it. She will always be remembered for her unwary love for her animals and her beautifully manicured yard, full of a variety of plants and vibrant flowers.

In addition to her parents, Kathy was preceded in death by her daughter Katherine Jane Harp and brother Thomas Cooper.

Surviving family members include her sons Tommy Harp (Beth), John Harp, Tony Johnson (Theresa); sister Gail Freemon (Tim); grandchildren Jordan, Hayden, Peyton, Christopher, T.J, Katie; nephew Jason, nieces Kristy, Kimberly, Kayla; and numerous great grandchildren.

Kathy’s request was to have her body donated to science at the Wellstar Medical College of Georgia.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to your local humane society or the Aiken ASPCA.