Catherine Brashear

Newfield - Catherine Brashear of Newfield, NY passed away on May 17 at age 101. Anyone who knew Catherine knew of her legendary hard-working nature, and passion for outdoor living.

Catherine was born in Ithaca and graduated from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn.

Catherine worked at Cornell as a graphic designer for 35 years. While working she could also be found scraping/painting the farmhouse, setting up compost piles (back in the '60's) and tending to cats, dogs, and loose horses.

During the 1970's she started heating with wood. Sawing, splitting and stacking wood became her #1 hobby, only taking the month of July "off" from the process.

Two broken hips in her 80's never slowed her down; she still mowed her own lawn. When she opened an Etsy shop at age 86 she gained cross country fans of her colorful hand crocheted rugs. She was a true energizer bunny, as acknowledged by all.

She is survived by her son Buster Brashear (Cynthia) of Newfield, NY, and daughter Bonnie Brashear. She is also survived by her beloved granddaughter Christine L'Amoreaux (Duane) and nieces Diana, Penny, Paula, Tobi and Toni, as well as her favorite visitor, nephew Michael.

Catherine would have liked to thank her superb team of support and caring, so we shall do it here: nurses Shelby and Nichole, Edna, Sharon, Rita, and Jane. Susie was Mom's extraordinary massage therapist who filled her final years with expertise, love and compassion. We are forever grateful for their love, kindness, patience and thoughtfulness. Thanks also to the entire Hospicare organization.