Obituary published on Legacy.com by Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service on Feb. 26, 2025.
After a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, Cathy Miller, 66, of
Berlin, Maryland passed away peacefully on February 21st, 2025, with her devoted husband by her side.
The third of four children, Cathy was born on August 21, 1958, in downtown Baltimore to the late Clarence & Elaine Zerhusen. Around the age of 5, the family moved to East Brunswick NJ where Cathy was enrolled in Catholic school- something her parents held of highest importance. At 10, the family moved to Annapolis, MD. There they lived next to her grandparents Henry and Naomi Zerhusen for a year before moving to Timonium, MD where Cathy would spend the remainder of her school years- at St Joseph's and then Towson Catholic High School. Following high school, Cathy attended Towson University and spent her summers working at the Marina Deck in Ocean City, Maryland. It was during the summer of 1979 that Cathy met Ed. They fell in love quickly and fully and were married at St. Mary Star of the Sea Church in September of 1981. Cathy and Ed spent the next 8 years enjoying life together in Ocean City, before welcoming their first child in 1989, and then their second in 1991. Cathy spent the better part of three decades in her career as a dedicated optician where she excelled at customer service. She retired from Azar Eye Institute soon after her diagnoses in 2022.
Cathy was loved by all who met her. She enjoyed reading- even if she happened to read the same 20 books over and over, gardening- despite her constant complaints about the lack of sun exposure in her backyard, and storm chasing- making hurricane season the number one reason she loved living at the beach- second of course being AYCE crabs. She had a knack for keeping every cord to every electronic device created since 1990- which she lovingly did for her nostalgic son- just in case it might come in handy. She was one of the most hospitable hosts to ever host- many times, taking in her daughters' friends as temporary tenants. And she made the absolute best gravy. Her accomplishments were many, but her gravy-making cannot be understated- it was second to none. Thanksgivings will never be as delicious without her.
Cathy is survived by her husband Ed; her daughter Amanda (Russ); her son Danny; and- coming into this world just in time to meet her- her newborn grandson, Jude. Cathy is also survived by her brother David Zerhusen and his wife Kathy; sister Judy Wall and her husband Michael; brother Jeff Zerhusen and his wife Meg; mother-in law Shirl Bobak-Frydrych, brother and sister-in-law Paul and Carol Miller, brother in law Bob Bobak; sister in law Stacy Bobak; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Cathy is also mourned by Trish Litten (Jay) whom she loved as dearly as a daughter, and Lily and Poppy Litten whom she cherished as grandchildren.
Cathy will be remembered for her sharp mind, welcoming heart, warm laugh, and passion for life. She was always ready to help in moments of need - even at her own expense. She will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her and will forever live in our hearts.
A special thanks to all who supported Cathy and family after her diagnoses in January 2023. To each and every one of the amazing staff at the Richard A Henson Cancer Institute, the wonderful surgical and nursing team at John's Hopkins Hospital, the caring staff at the Stansell House, and to every single person who reached out in our family's time of need- our hearts are full because of your support.
Per Cathy's wishes, no formal services will be held- an intimate family gathering will take place on March 7th. Extended family, friends, and acquaintances are welcome to pay respects and celebrate Cathy's memory from 1pm-2pm at Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Cathy, please visit our floral store.