Jacob Marshall Catoe

Jacob Marshall Catoe, 84, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2025 in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Born on April 8, 1941, in South Carolina. Marshall moved with his family to Arlington, Virginia, as a young boy. From an early age, he was active and deeply passionate about sports. He was introduced to wrestling and achieved great success, remaining undefeated through multiple seasons in high school and college. A proud graduate of Washington-Lee High School, Class of 1959, Marshall left a legacy there as a wrestling champion. He went on to attend East Carolina University, where he earned a degree in Physical Science with a minor in Mathematics. At ECU, he was a key member of the wrestling team, securing the second-best record on the squad. Marshall began his teaching and coaching career in South Carolina in 1966, instructing students in math, algebra, and geometry while coaching Junior Varsity Basketball and Football. In 1969, he returned to Arlington, Virginia, and began teaching at Swanson Intermediate School. Known and loved by many as "Coach Catoe," he dedicated over 30 years to education and athletics in Arlington County, coaching wrestling, football, track, and soccer. Most of his career was at Swanson however he also coached at Yorktown High School and Williamsburg Middle School during his career. His students frequently reached championship levels, a testament to his dedication and skill as a mentor and coach. He was also involved in the Better Sports Club of Arlington, supporting youth development both on and off the field as well as coaching the Arlington Tigers. In the summer months, Marshall could often be found working on various carpentry projects-he enjoyed building, fixing, and creating with his hands. He was also an avid runner, participating in numerous races over the years, including the Marine Corps Marathon, demonstrating his enduring determination and spirit. Marshall also made time to study and earn a Masters Degree in Physical Science from George Mason University. He was a father to three daughters and coached them on several sports teams. Following his retirement from Arlington County, Coach Catoe continued sharing his passion by teaching and coaching at Bethune Charter School in South Carolina, where he served as Athletic Director. He brought sports opportunities to a small rural school, coaching wrestling, baseball, and golf, and inspiring another generation of young athletes. Coach Catoe officially retired in 2001 and settled in Sopchoppy, Florida, where he married his last love, Joanne Edwards Catoe. Together, they shared a joyful life built on common loves: family, Jesus, and ice cream. Their bond was a source of happiness and strength in his later years. Marshall was an active member of the Sopchoppy Lions Club and Sopchoppy Baptist Church. He moved to Fredericksburg Va to be closer to his children after the passing of his dear Joanne. Marshall is survived by his children: Anne Pokorny (Jeff), Amy Brown (Nathan), and Teresa Catoe (John Wheeler); and his stepchildren: BobbiJo Crouch (Mike), Katie Steinle (Craig), and Lisa Russell (Rick); siblings, Chris Catoe and Charlotte Cobb (Jim). He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and extended family who brought him pride and joy. He is preceded by death by both spouses, Diane Doyle Catoe (married 1968-1999) and Joanne Edwards Catoe. A Celebration of Life will be held on August 2, 2025, at 2:00 PM at New Life Outreach International Church, 4716 Harrison Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22408. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and share memories of a life lived with purpose, passion, and heart. Light refreshments will be served after the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice, to Parkinson's research, or to Sopchoppy Baptist Church in Sopchoppy, Florida. Coach Catoe's legacy lives on in the many lives he influenced-as a teacher, coach, husband, father, and friend. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved. Please sign the Guestbook at www.legacy.com/washingtontimes