Ms. Catherine Edson

Catherine Edson, a devoted mother, grandmother, librarian, and lifelong advocate for education, passed away on August 26, 2025, at the age of 76. After surviving stage 3 lung cancer, and finding new joys in life, she passed unexpectedly due to complications from pneumonia. Born in New York City on June 19, 1949, Catherine was the beloved daughter of Takeshi (Thomas) Akama and her adoptive mother, Caroline Van West. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Roger Edson, her parents, and her dear sisters, Jane and Elise. Catherine is survived by her four children, Lisa Oliphant (Andy), Timothy Edson (Jessica), Nicole Edson, and Cheryl Edson (Patrick), as well as her cherished grandchildren: Chelsea, Ruthie, Roni, Lucas, Gabe, and Lucie. Her family was the heart of her world, and nothing brought her more joy than being part of her grandchildren's lives-attending their concerts, games and events, reading to them, playing games, and simply being present. Catherine's long and dedicated career as a librarian began in New York and later continued in North Carolina. She was deeply passionate about ensuring all children had access to books and the opportunities that came with them. Her belief in the power of literacy and education shaped not only her professional life but also her personal mission. Even after her retirement in 2020, she frequently reminisced about the children who she had interacted with at the library and expressed her fervent hope that she had helped them find the joy she found in books. In her free time, Catherine found happiness in simple pleasures: reading, crafting, and spending time with her family. She found joy in visiting the beach and sharing her grandchildren's happiness and wonder as they explored zoos, museums and festivals. Her family always enjoyed her cooking and baking and will treasure her recipes for many years to come. Her quiet warmth, steady presence, and boundless love will be missed beyond measure. Catherine leaves behind a legacy of kindness, learning, and unwavering devotion to the people she loved. Her memory will live on in the lives of her children and grandchildren, and in every child who turned a page because of her belief in the importance of libraries. A memorial service will be held at St. Andrews UMC on Sunday August 31st at 2:00pm. A celebration of life will follow at 5968 Waldo's Beach Rd. The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to https://gofund.me/c1c6195d which will support her grandson's education.