Robert Kyle "Bob" Catherwood

HENDERSON-Robert Kyle “Bob” Catherwood, 82, passed away peacefully, Friday, February 27, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and devotion to his family and community.

Born on January 9, 1944, on Long Island, New York, to Henry and Ruth Catherwood, Bob was raised with strong values that guided him throughout his life. After graduating from high school, he attended Penn State University, where he earned his degree in education. He later received his Master’s degree in Education from Queens College in New York.

Bob began his professional life as an educator, teaching for five years before feeling called to pursue a new path. He attended Wake Forest University School of Law and, upon earning his law degree, began a distinguished legal career that spanned forty-three years. He faithfully served clients and the communities of Henderson and Oxford with integrity, wisdom, and steadfast dedication.

A devoted member of First Baptist Church in Henderson, Bob’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He served as a deacon, Sunday School teacher in the Dee Dee Wester Class, and soloist in the chancel choir. His ministry extended beyond the church walls through his leadership on numerous committees and his role in establishing a nursing home ministry that provided worship services and spiritual encouragement to residents.

Bob was a past president of the Jaycees and a member of the Henderson Masonic Lodge, generously giving his time and leadership to civic life. Among his greatest joys was coaching his three sons in t-ball, baseball, and basketball—years filled with encouragement, laughter, and unwavering support from the sidelines.

He treasured weekends at the lake, where he delighted in pulling his boys on skis and hydroslides. An avid traveler, Bob visited more than 26 countries and many of the fifty states. He was also an enthusiastic golfer and proudly achieved a hole-in-one on the fourth hole at Henderson Country Club—only to lose that very ball on his next tee shot at number five, a story he shared with good humor for years.

Bob was the embodiment of quiet strength and steady character, lighting every room he entered with his calm presence. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, faithful servant, and committed Christian whose life reflected humility, generosity, and grace.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sandra, with whom he would have celebrated fifty years of marriage in June; his three sons, Grady Robert Catherwood (Nicole), Owen Kyle Catherwood (Robertha), and Kyle Taylor Perkinson (Alanna); and his seven cherished grandchildren: Dawson, Rose, Ember, Tahir, Ky-Mani, Taylor, and Jack.

His legacy of faith, family devotion, and community service will continue to live on in the many lives he touched.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at First Baptist Church Henderson by Dr. Ronald S. Cava. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at a reception in the fellowship hall. 

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church Henderson Music Ministry, and/or the Capital Campaign (please note which fund when giving) P. O. Box 75, Henderson, NC, 27536.