Harry Vernon Cathey III

Harry Vernon 'HANK' Cathey was born on March 2, 1970 in Raleigh, North Carolina. It was a beautiful, sunny, Spring day. The world became a brighter place. His love of life, exuberance, and wit affected all he knew.

Most of his youth he lived in Kings Mountain, North Carolina. Hank attended the Kings Mountain City Schools from Kindergarten to Graduation. He attended the First Wesleyan Church. He made friends easily and enjoyed a full social life. But alas, small town life was not for him.

He graduated from Lenoir Rhyne University, Hickory, North Carolina, with a BA in English. Here he made lifelong friends and remained close with Rob, Phil, and Dave throughout his life.

After graduation he immediately moved to Austin, Texas and lived there for 20 years. He loved the big art-filled city. For a short time he also lived in Seattle, San Antonio, and New York City. For the last six years he had made Brevard/Pisgah Forest, North Carolina his home, rooming/renting with his friend Rob.

Hank loved to travel. He loved to explore exotic places. He probably had more adventures in his short lifetime on this earth than most people would have dreamt of.

He explored Europe. He loved to travel alone and just wander, Italy was a favorite. The off the beat places. He talked of the awesome food and the beauty of the small villages. He stood on the side of the Alps and called his mother. Don't you know she was thrilled.

He lived a month in Champagne, France exploring the vineyards and studying how each grew their grapes. He was exceptionally educated in the art of 'spirits.' He was a fascinating person to listen to about topics he loved.

He burned too brightly for this world and he could not sustain the flame.

He is survived by his mother, Rita Renae Richards of Hickory, North Carolina and his father, Harry Vernon "Butch" Cathey, Jr. of Leesburg, Florida. In addition he is survived by his younger brother, William "Billy" Richard Cathey.

Also surviving him are: his uncle and aunt, Max and Betty Fletcher Richards; his uncle and aunt; David and LaRae Richards Coile. His aunt Penelope Cathey; and his aunt Sharon Cathey. Surviving Cousins: Dustyn Richards, Josh and Angie Richards Eckard, Richard and Sheila Fulmer Coile, Trey and Daphne Rivers, and Brandon and KT Rivers. Michael and Karen Cathey, Joel and Amy Cathey, and Jeannette Cathey. And many 2nd cousins and 3 cousins.

He leaves a grieving family who wish they could have had more time with him. A hole is left in the heart. He will be missed by all who loved and befriended him. May he rest in eternal peace.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Liver Foundation, ALF Liver - American Liver Foundation Thank you!