Sanford Eugene Catoe passed away on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the age of 78 after a 17-month stay at Crestview in Mooresville, N.C.

Gene was born on July 7, 1947 in Charlotte, N.C., the son of Sanford Lee and Ruby Catoe.

He is survived by his wife Pam, son Chris (Trisha), granddaughters Alicia (husband Alex), Kristina (boyfriend Josh), brother Jacky, nieces Nikki (husband Eric), Amanda (husband James) and three great nieces and one great, great nephew.

He graduated from North Mecklenburg High School. He served as a Mecklenburg County Police Officer for 20 years before being injured and having to retire. The last two years he served as a K9 Officer. He truly loved being a police officer. After recovering from his injury he worked several part-time jobs before going to work at Auto Zone, where he ended that career as Assistant Manager.

In addition to loving his family, he loved cars, especially street rods. Over the years he bought and traded many different cars. Each one was special to him. Gene attended Berea Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon, Chairman of Deacons, and Sunday School Director.

The family will receive friends on Monday, May 18, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. with a service following at 2 p.m. at the Chapel of Cavin-Cook Funeral Home with Rev. Dan Freeman officiating. Burial will follow the service at Berea Baptist Church Cemetery.

Cavin-Cook Funeral Home & Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Catoe family. Condolences may be made to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.