CATHERINE SCHRADER

SCHRADER CATHERINE (nee METZ) October 16, 1944 - January 7, 2026 Catherine Metz Schrader, 81, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by friends and family on January 7th, 2026. She left a deep impression on everyone close to her, and her impact on their lives will not be forgotten. Cathy was born to Edmond and Catherine Metz on October 16th, 1944, at Temple Hospital. She was the second of 5 and grew up in Philadelphia's Fairhill neighborhood. She graduated from Saint Mary's Academy, Manor Junior College, and Temple University, obtaining a Bachelor's Degree and teaching certifications in science and math. Cathy married Claude A. Schrader in 1979 in St. Thomas, VI, and they had 2 sons, Claude M. Schrader and Matthew J. Schrader. Cathy was a proud citizen of Philadelphia. Throughout her life, she lived in North Philadelphia and Germantown, with a brief stay in Fox Chase after college. Cathy undoubtedly found hertrue calling when she dedicated her life to education, community service, and her family. She received an award from "The Chapel of Four Chaplains", which honors outstanding members of society whose lives exemplify unconditional service to their community. This recognition perfectly reflects her life. Cathy taught mathematics at every level from elementary school to college. She taught at Saint Boniface Elementary School, Harding Junior High, Amy Northwest Middle School, Community College of Philadelphia, and Drexel University. Cathy also dedicated tremendous energy to the craft of teaching, mentoring public school teachers in Philadelphia's Olney neighborhood. She served as a Trainer and National Fellow for the Coalition of Essential Schools, and a Mentor Teacher for Breakthrough Greater Philadelphia. She taught GED classes at St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Germantown and tutored countless students, both at Germantown Friends School and privately at home. Some of Cathy's greatest joys in life were her family, a hot cup of coffee, a cold Pepsi, her cats, the beach, her garden, quilting, storytelling, and listening to WHYY public radio. Her genuine interest and care for others saw her connect with all who crossed her path, whether at the grocery store or walking by her porch on a beautiful day. Cathy is survived by her husband Claude, her son Claude and his wife Elaine Luczka, her son Matthew and his wife Annabeth Marks, and her grandchildren Coretta and Maya. She is also survived by her siblings Geri DeFelice, Edmond Metz, and John Metz, cats Joule and Autumn, many loved nieces and nephews, and cherished lifelong friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, and sister Margie. All are invited to a Celebration of Cathy's Life on Sunday, February 22nd at 2:30 P.M. at the Germantown Friends Meeting House, 47 West Coulter Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19144. In place of flowers, please consider a donation to Blood Cancer United or The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia.