Some people bring a light so great to the world that even after they have gone, their light remains.
Cathy Jean Catlett (September 29, 1948 – November 14, 2025) was one of those people, and she shared that light with everyone she met. Cathy was a vibrant woman who was passionate about the causes she believed in. For many years, Cathy volunteered rescuing animals. Many dogs and cats live in their forever homes thanks to her tireless work with animal rescue organizations. Volunteering with hospice was another of Cathy’s favorite things to do. She fell in love with all of the patients she got to know while she was volunteering. Her perpetual smile and gentle touch brought comfort to many people and their families during their most difficult times.
On top of volunteering, Cathy enjoyed a variety of other things as well. She loved watching NASCAR races while she was snuggled up on her couch with her husband Thom. She loved watching Thom when he played polo and when he raced his BMW. Crafting was one of her greatest talents, and Cathy gifted her family and friends with a variety of beautiful handmade gifts.
It has been said that “most mamas ought to qualify for sainthood.” That definitely rings true for Cathy, too; despite working in challenging jobs, she never missed an opportunity to support her children in their endeavors. Cathy was at every school program and award ceremony. Her children always knew how much she loved them and how proud she was of them and their accomplishments.
June 3, 1987, was, in her words, “the greatest night ever.” This is because she was in the delivery room during the birth of her first granddaughter, Shandra. From that moment on, she was “Grandma Cathy,” and nothing made her happier than spending time with her grandchildren. She dedicated herself to loving them and teaching them everything she could. From her, they learned about being a good person, crafting, NASCAR and the infamous “Grandma Cathy face.”
Cathy unexpectedly passed away at Lake Norman Regional Medical Center after an injury on November 14, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents, Miriam and Stuart Campbell; her son, Michael Catlett; her grandson Ethan Parker; and her beloved Australian Shepherd, Boo-Boo.
People who continue to cherish her memory include her husband Thomas; her daughter, Sheri (St. John); her son, John (Kathy); her son, Noel; and her daughter, Emily (Jamie). Cathy’s nephew and niece, Daryl and Shelly, will forever miss their loving aunt. Additionally, Cathy has many grandchildren who cherish her memory, including Shandra (Dominic), Brady (Caitlin), Corey, Haven, Dylan (Madeleine), Taryn, Gwendolyn, and Emerson. Sadie, her favorite rescue dog, misses her mommy and all of the affection and cookies her mommy gave her.
Cathy’s hope for the future lies in her three-year-old great-granddaughter, Victoria Anne. Cathy’s bright light shines on in Victoria’s beautiful smile and happy personality. To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die, and Cathy will forever be in our hearts.
The family will hold private services at a later date.
Cavin-Cook Funeral Home & Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Catlett family. Condolences may be made to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.