Catherine Royster Chrismon

Mrs. Catherine (Cathy) Royster Chrismon passed away March 20, 2025 at the Hospice House of Johnston County after many years battling declining health. A celebration of Cathy’s life will be led by her special niece, Amy Chrismon, at Rose and Graham in Benson, NC on Thursday, March 27,2025 at 10:00AM.

Cathy was born in Oxford, NC on July 18, 1946, to James Daniel (Doc) Royster and Virginia Dean Royster. Cathy treasured growing up in Benson, North Carolina where her father was a beloved town doctor, and her mother was a cherished community member. In 1950, Cathy was crowned the very first “Little Miss Benson” and her adoration for the town she called home never faded.

After graduating from Benson High School in 1964, Cathy obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education in 1968 from Campbell University. She worked for the American Red Cross in Ft. Campbell, Kentucky until she began teaching for the San Antonio Independent School District in 1970. That school year was life-changing as she met a fellow teacher named Jack Chrismon; Cathy and Jack were married on January 30, 1971! Their family grew in 1972 when their first son, Dean, was born and again in 1977 when their second son, Charles, was born. They enjoyed life in San Antonio, Texas until 1982 when they moved to North Carolina to live in Cathy’s homeplace on Main Street in Benson. From 1983-89, Cathy and Jack owned and operated Miss Virginia’s Childcare Center in Benson. Cathy then worked for Ray Mulkey Insurance from 1989 until retiring in 1996. Before her health battles began, Cathy enjoyed going out dancing with Jack, entertaining and spending time with friends, retreating to Topsail Island, reading, solving crossword puzzles, attending NC State basketball and football games and traveling extensively abroad with her sister-in-law, Susan. Intelligent and witty, outgoing and confident; Cathy was a Yahtzee loving, Jeopardy answer giving, trivial pursuit champion! Her family and friends treasure their many adventures and fun times through the years with Cathy. Cathy no longer feels the pains of this world and as Christians we know that God promises His children complete healing, restoration and eternal life with Him, free of suffering.

Survivors include her husband of 54 years, Jack; children Dean A. Chrismon and significant other, Marie Hall, Charles D. Chrismon and wife, Brandy; grandson Chace Daniel Chrismon; numerous nieces and nephews. Cathy was preceded in death by her parents (Doc and Virginia Royster), brother and sister-in-law (Danny and Susan Wood Royster), and granddaughter (Harleigh Grace Chrismon).

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Johnston County EMS for their services through the years as well as the SECU Hospice House for the compassionate care they provided to Cathy.

Immediately following the celebration of life at Rose and Graham in Benson, the family welcomes friends to visit with them to share memories and support one another. Cut flowers or potted plants are welcome; however, memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research and / or the SECU Hospice House of Johnston County.

Arrangements by Rose & Graham Funeral Home in Benson.