MOAS will never be the same without Katie, but her legacy is what will keep us going.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of MOAS employee Katie Griffeth. Katie was an incredible person, an unwavering advocate for animals, and an amazing friend to so many. She was known for her unmatched love of animals and her dedication to helping the neediest among them. As the life blood of MOAS, Katie made an immeasurable impact on our community as she served as our veterinary technician, assisting with thousands upon thousands of spay/neuter surgeries to combat pet overpopulation.

Katie had been a devoted employee of MOAS since its inception in 2002, dedicating over 22 years of her life to the welfare of animals. Her compassion, kindness, and tireless efforts touched countless lives, both human and animal. In all things Katie was selfless, giving, and the hardest working individual MOAS has ever had.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family, her MOAS family, and the community members who knew and loved Katie.

In her honor, staff started a memorial with flowers at the shelter gate. Please feel free to leave flowers in her honor, but even more so adopt, foster, or help an animal in some way, as that will honor Katie’s legacy and her mission to save animals. We will provide updates about funeral services in the coming days.

Rest in peace, Katie. You will be deeply missed. You were hired before the first block was laid at MOAS in 2002, and you were the cornerstone of our organization. As we honor Katie and her life, please feel free to comment with any fond memories you have.

Katie’s service will be Thursday June 27, 2024 at Bannister-Cooper Funeral Home 678 North Main St. Hiawassee, GA 30546 with viewing at 11AM with service starting at 1PM. Interment will follow at Laurel Hills Memory Gardens on GA-515 Young Harris, GA 30582 at the GA-NC line.