Albert Whitby Catlett Sr. Retired

HENDERSON –Albert Whitby Catlett, Sr., Lt. Colonel, USAF, Retired, 94, of Willowood Drive, died peacefully, surrounded by his family on Friday, January 12, 2024. Born April 27, 1929 in Henderson, N.C., he was the son of the late Robert Samuel Catlett and Lula Whitby Catlett. He graduated from Henderson High School in 1948. He played on the Henderson High School Football Team, winning the state championship in 1947. He graduated from Appalachian State University continuing his football career as one of the "Duggin's Boys" winning Conference Championships 2 years.
After proudly serving in the United States Air Force for 23 years, he returned to Henderson to lead the Jr. Air Force ROTC Program and teach at Vance Senior High School. He later served as the Safety Officer for Vance Trucking Company.
Al was an active member of The Church of the Holy Innocents where a memorial service will be held in April.
He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Elizabeth "Betsy" Bachman Catlett of the home; his daughter, Elizabeth "Anne" Catlett Reap of Charlotte, NC; two sons, Albert W. Catlett, Jr. (Janelle) of Charlottesville, VA, and Robert Walker Catlett of the home; five grandchildren, Robert Christopher Catlett, Ryan Whitby Catlett (Celine), Andrew Walker Catlett (Lauren) James Albert Catlett, and William Mundy Reap III; and three great grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Helen Catlett Norman and brother, Joseph Day.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Church of The Holy Innocents, 210 S.Chestnut Street, Henderson, NC 27536.