Mourning the Loss of Kathilu Mote, Beloved Educator and Wife of Longtime Extension Agent Mitchell Mote

ROCKVALE, Tenn. (WGNS) – Kathilu (pronounced Kathy Lou) Rader Mote, a cherished educator and devoted community member, passed away on Sunday (May 11, 2025) at the age of 65.

Kathilu is survived by her husband of 44 years, Mitchell Glenn Mote, who recently retired after 37½ years of service as a UT/TSU Extension Agent in Rutherford County. Mitchell was a familiar voice on WGNS Radio's "Action Line" program, offering expert advice on lawn and garden topics to the community. He often credited Kathilu for her unwavering support throughout his career, acknowledging that her strength and dedication at home allowed him to serve the community effectively.

A passionate educator, Kathilu earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Middle Tennessee State University and dedicated 32 years to teaching at Christiana Elementary School. Her commitment to education and her students left a lasting impact on countless lives.

Kathilu was an active member of Blackman United Methodist Church, where she found joy and fellowship.

She is survived by her daughters, Catherine Deist and her husband Matthew of Cowan, TN; Emily Mote of Manchester, TN; and Abigail Martin and her husband Kevin of Shelbyville, TN. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Waverly Deist of Cowan and Waylan Martin of Shelbyville.

Kathilu's surviving siblings include brothers Herby Rader (Pam) of LaVergne and Larry Rader (Karen) of Springfield; sisters Leanne Snyder (Aaron) of Trenton and Claudia Paul of Thompson’s Station; and brother-in-law Mark Giluiani of Maryville.

Born in Nashville, Tennessee, Kathilu was the daughter of the late Roy Douglas Rader and Dorothy Beatrice Sherrill Rader. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Teresa Giluiani.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:30 AM on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Blackman United Methodist Church, officiated by Pastor Lory Catlett. Visitation will take place from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM prior to the service.

Arrangements are under the direction of Woodfin Memorial Chapel. For more information, call (615) 893-5151.