John Lewis Catoe

John Lewis Catoe, affectionately known as "Iceman," passed away on February 2, 2026, at the age of 89, in Ormond Beach, Florida.

Born on March 22, 1936, in Valhalla, New York, John was the only child of John Catoe and Louise S. Kirkland. He grew up in New York, graduating from Mount Vernon High School, attending a military boarding school in New Jersey, and later completing trade school for typewriters-skills that reflected his lifelong work ethic and adaptability.

John proudly served his country in the United States Army from August 1958 to August 1961, earning an Honorable Discharge after service during the Vietnam War era. Following his military service, he built a long and dedicated career, including work as a railroad worker in New York City and later retiring as a Civil Service Supervisor for the White Plains, New York School District.

Deeply committed to service and leadership, John served as Past President of the CSEA Union in Westchester County, where he led and secured an equal opportunity campaign for non-teaching retirement benefits. He also served as a Special Deputy Sheriff with the Westchester County Emergency Force, was an active member of the Retreads Motorcycle Club, and a long-term member of the Family Motor Coach Association-embracing the camaraderie and freedom of the open road.

John had a larger-than-life personality and simple joys. He loved classic Western "shoot 'em up" movies-watching them all day, every day-and was known for his honesty, strong opinions, and unwavering dedication to family. Those closest to him will forever remember his signature sayings:

"Sugar Honey Iced Tea,"

"Family should support family,"

and his favorite reminder, "Don't get old, baby."

He was preceded in death by his beloved children Dwayne (1960) and Deirdre Jones (2022); his parents John Catoe (1995) and Louise Kirkland (2014); and his stepmother Clara Catoe (2022).

John is survived by his wife of 53 years, Carol Catoe; his daughter Veronica Catoe; granddaughters Tatiana Yoguez and Carrissa Whitfield; grandsons TreVonn Catoe Johnson and Brandon Whitfield (Heather); great-grandsons Malachai Gillis and Antoine Simmons; and great-granddaughters Marlee, Arianna and Aniyah Whitfield. His legacy lives on through each of them.

A Celebration of Life will be held in March, in honor of what would have been John's 90th birthday. Details will be shared with family and friends. The family extends their sincere gratitude for the calls, texts, prayers, and outpouring of love and support during this time.

As he departed this plane of existence, the setting waxing gibbous moon illuminated my father's completion on earth and reminded us to trust the universe and move forward without fear. Until we meet again, Daddy.

- Veronica

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Brown/McDow/Montgomery/Reid Educational Fund, the Michael J. Fox Foundation, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.