Katherine Furches Rumley Remembered

Katherine “Kitty” Furches Rumley, ’43, alumna and devoted supporter of Meredith College, passed away on March 20, 2018, following a brief illness. She was 95.

Rumley and her husband, Leon, gave generously to the College through the years. Their daughter Ellen Amanda Rumley, ’77, passed away during her senior year at Meredith as a result of an automobile accident, but their love and support of Meredith continued.

As a memorial to Ellen, family and friends established The Ellen Amanda Rumley Scholarship Fund. It was established as a commitment to higher education for women and a way to assist worthy students who would benefit from financial assistance. The Rumleys and other donors have made additional gifts throughout the years.

In 2015, Meredith was the recipient of a $3 million gift from Kitty Rumley to add to the scholarship fund.

The endowment has resulted in a program of financial assistance providing four scholarships each year with an Ellen Amanda Rumley Memorial Scholar in each class. The scholarship supports students like Ellen who exemplify integrity, scholarly excellence, and character. Each graduating Rumley Scholar is recognized by the College and receives a Rumley Scholar medallion and certificate.

The Rumleys’ love for their daughter was evident throughout their lives. The College is grateful that they chose to honor their daughter in such a special way at Meredith.