Catherine Winters

Catherine McCullum Winters, affectionately known as "Cat," was born on October 6, 1948, in Pascagoula, Mississippi, to the late Estus and Lou McCullum. With her bright spirit and love for music, she attended Carver Negro High School, where she proudly marched as a member of the mighty Hornets Band, playing the clarinet. Those formative years not only nurtured her talents but also introduced her to her lifelong love and high school sweetheart, James "Byrd" Winters.

Catherine and Byrd were united in marriage, a partnership filled with devotion, laughter, and a shared vision for success. Together, they built a beautiful life, rooted in love for family and fueled by entrepreneurial spirit. Catherine enjoyed a long and dedicated career at Ingalls Shipbuilding, where she retired after years of faithful service. Alongside her husband, she co-owned and operated several successful businesses in the community-including a pool hall, a hair salon, and the well-loved Byrd's Music & Deli, a gathering place remembered fondly by many.

Known for her jovial personality and infectious laughter, Cat could light up any room. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a proud grandmother whose greatest joy came from nurturing her family. Her warmth, humor, and unwavering generosity endeared her to all who crossed her path.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Lou "Ms. Bean" & Estus McCullum Sr.; sisters, Evelyn 'Eve' Jackson & Kercelia "Tina" Burns; brothers, Derrick "Dickey" McCullum & Alfred McCullum; nieces & nephews, Antawn McCullum, Octavis Green, Wilie "Boo Boo" James Burns, Jr., Marquelle Enoch, Kelli Potts, Adam Johnson, Jr., Issach McCullum, Yolanda Yvette 'Landy" McCullum & Katrina Danielle Fountain; cousins, Colette McNeil, Anthony McNeil and grandson who was near and dear to her heart, William "BJ" Liddell, Jr.

She leaves to cherish her memories, loving and devoted husband, James "Byrd" Winters of Moss Point, MS; one devoted son, Antonio Winters of Pascagoula, MS & one devoted daughter, Leah (Ronnie) Winters Porter of Columbus, MS; loving and devoted grandchildren, Alexandria Liddell, Jada Liddell, Quincy Winters and Xavier Walker; eight great grandchildren; devoted brother, Estus "Mann" (Patrice) McCullum and devoted sisters, Patricia McCullum and Sandra McCullum and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Catherine's life was a testament to hard work, resilience, and love. She will be remembered not only for her accomplishments but also for the joy and kindness she shared so freely.