Catherine "Kae" McCooey

Catherine "Kae" McCooey

AGE: 92 • Ocean Grove

Catherine "Kae" McCooey, 92, passed away peacefully Sunday, Aug. 26, 2012, at Manor by the Sea, Ocean Grove. Kae is survived by her son, Michael, of Sea Bright; her daughter, Marianne of Howell; and her granddaughter, Heather of Eatontown. Kae was a strong woman whose tenacity and independent style of living put her ahead of her time. She overcame many tough challenges throughout her life including the tragic loss of her parents and a brother at a very young age, living through the depression era, and raising her children as a single parent after separating from her husband. For many years, Kae relied on public transportation or her bike with its many baskets to get where she needed to go to take care of her family. She worked as a professional secretary for nearly 50 years but happily retired to care for her granddaughter, Heather, who she cherished and loved dearly. She was an avid reader and a fan of "The Classics", particularly Charles Dickens. In her heyday, Kae was crowned "Shell Oil Queen" and was known for her impeccable taste and always being "dressed to the nines." Of all his fans, Frank Sinatra had none more dedicated than Kae. In recent years, although her memory faded, she still knew every word to every song that Frank ever sang and continued to sing along or tap to the beat on the arm of her wheelchair! Kae, like Frank, "faced it all and stood tall." She was an amazing woman and a wonderful mother and grandmother. The family would like to publicly acknowledge the Manor by the Sea staff for the outstanding care they provided to Kae over the years. A special thanks to Oosha, head nurse and dedicated professional, and to Maria, Kae's primary aide, who treated her like family and was always there to take care of anything she needed and coax a laugh out of her, even on the bad days. Funeral arrangements are private and Kae's remains will be scattered over the ocean at her request to acknowledge her favorite days relaxing on the Avon beach. To e-mail a condolence message, please visit www.oceangrovememorialhome.com. The Ocean Grove Memorial Home, is in charge of arrangements.