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BORN

1937

DIED

2018

FUNERAL HOME

Volusia Memorial Funeral Home

548 North Nova Road

Ormond Beach, Florida

Catherine Whitcomb Obituary

Catherine Hunt Whitcomb, 81, of Ormond Beach, FL and Derby, VT died peacefully surrounded by her children on April 18, 2018. She was born to Emil and Dorothy Mattson on February 6, 1937 in Orleans, VT. Cathy graduated from Worcester Memorial, Worcester, MA with a nursing degree and worked at the South Shore Hospital in Weymouth for many years. She was married to the late Wilton (Bill) Whitcomb, her beloved world travel partner adventuring through beautiful places including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Spain, and Greece. They eventually settled in Newport, Vermont where she worked in the recovery room at North Country Hospital in Newport VT. Finally tiring of shoveling driveways, they sold the Newport Marina and divided their time between Ormond Beach and camp on Salem Lake in Derby, VT. An avid Mah Jong player, she often boasted of winning 70 cents one week only to be defeated by a loss of 25 cents the next. She was an active volunteer in both the Newport Congregational Church in Vermont and Christ Presbyterian Church in Ormond Beach. Cathy is survived by her first husband of 24 years, Neil Murphy, a lifelong resident of Scituate, MA, her sister, Emily Robinson of Scituate, MA, her brother, John Mattson of Jay, VT, her four children Deborah Duffy, of N. Dighton, MA, David Murphy of Springvale, ME, Daniel Murphy of Sunderland, MA and Kristen Murphy of West Glover, VT. She is also survived by her 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren and many awesome nieces and nephews. She was well loved for her grace, her genuine kindness to all she knew, and her love of laughter. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.volusiamemorialfunerals.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Daytona Beach News-Journal on Apr. 26, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Catherine Whitcomb

Not sure what to say?





Debbie Duffy

May 11, 2018

My compass north has gone. I will be aimless for a while and hope that when you run into me and I look directionless, just point me in the right one so I can find my way.

Mom and I traveled north a lot from Florida to Vermont or vice versa and she always had control of the maps. She was the best navigator out there and was always up for an adventure, suggesting that we make a quick visit to a family member or friend, or she'd say "turn here Deb, let me show you this place or that".

Dan Murphy

May 9, 2018

Always gentle. Always gracious with a love of laughter. I'll forever remember your silly jokes, your two footed driving, and running from your licked thumb as you tried to clean something off my face when I was a little guy.

I remember how happy you and Bill were when you moved into Strawberry Acres and your joy seeing Dale and Nicholas.

One of my very favorite times was when you came with Kristen to visit us in Thailand. You came to visit our paradise home and we took the overnight train to Chiang Mai, rode elephants and rafts and spent a night in the jungle on your birthday. It was a peaceful adventure we were all able to share and I was so excited to plan and then share it with you, Kristen and my family. I also cherish the memories from our 3-day trips north and especially the drive to Harrisburg when you were so happy we were able to watch the Mad Men finale in the hotel. I'll also never forget how beautiful you looked at Jessica's wedding last fall. You beamed and enjoyed every minute.

I wish I had one more chance to say something silly to make you snort, one more quiet drive with you in Derby, one more strong coffee, one more hug. You gave me unconditional love even when it was undeserved. I'll love and miss you forever Mom.

Dale Meehan

April 30, 2018

The middle wheel to three generations of professional care-givers that dedicated their lives to nursing to the needs of others. Was always a pleasure to visit with Catherine in Orleans as she always kept me abreast of Emily and John. As they say, you can take the Vermonter out of Vermont, but you can't take Vermont out of the Vermonter as Cathy could attest to that. God Bless to the entire family in your grieving and cherish your memories.

Lynda Murphy

April 29, 2018

You are breathing easy now Cathy and for that I am grateful. But I miss you, sitting here at the kitchen table (your gift to us), twisting the engagement ring I wouldn't have if not for you, mulling over the incredible life I've shared with the wonderous son you raised. I just thought I'd get to have another cup of tea with you while we "solved" the worlds problems and worried about family members - or may just shoot the breeze over wine and Baileys Irish Cream. You were not only a loving mother-in-law, you were a good, good friend. I so wish I'd had more time with you. Rest in peace. You've left beautiful kids to carry on your love.

Kristen Murphy

April 29, 2018

Mom,
Thank you for being such a loving and supportive mother. I have so many wonderful memories to cherish. Losing you has been the hardest thing I have ever had to endure, but I know that you are with me and continue to live in my heart. You raised four beautiful children, who are the best of friends and support one another. Being a mother to us was what you were most proud of and gave you the greatest joy. I remember you always loving me and for that I am eternally grateful!
Your daughter, Kristen

April 29, 2018

It can be so hard to face the first year without your loved one, but the love of family and friends can carry you through.

Dennis Pihl

April 29, 2018

Rest In Peace

Dan Murphy

April 28, 2018

Dan Murphy

April 28, 2018

Dan Murphy

April 28, 2018

Dan Murphy

April 28, 2018

Dan Murphy

April 28, 2018

Dan Murphy

April 28, 2018

Dan Murphy

April 28, 2018

David Murphy

April 28, 2018

David Murphy

April 28, 2018

David Murphy

April 28, 2018

David Murphy

April 28, 2018

David Murphy

April 28, 2018

Mom,

what can a son say? You are the best. You raised us with grace and kindness, and to always be forgiving and hospitable. You introduced us to prayer, guided us to church and lovingly demonstrated so many of the virtues that Christ taught. I was so looking forward to having you live with us or with Dan but you left us too soon Mom. Another breakfast together, another cup of coffee and laughter, another round of hearts, more words of wisdom to help me be a better Dad, husband, uncle or grandfather.

Im not sure Mom if I have ever experienced this much grief, this much sadness, crying a thousand tears, sobbing quietly till I cant cry anymore. You will be missed

Yet Mom I know without doubt that we will see you again. You helped both that hope deep inside of me and for which I am forever grateful.....Where there are no tears.....where there is no pain....no struggle to breath.......Jesus said he was going home to prepare a place for us. Mom this isnt goodbye......its I cant wait to see you again

A favor though.....now that you are in heaven with Our Father, can you please keep praying for me? I sure could use it.

I love you Mom

Your son David

Showing 1 - 19 of 19 results

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