Catherine Roberts Obituary
Catherine "Cathy" Roberts, 63, of Colchester, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home on September 15, 2025, with her daughter Becky and several friends by her side. She was born on November 13, 1961, in New Jersey to Alexander and Theresa Thomas Sosnowski. On July 23, 1988, Cathy married the love of her life, Tim Roberts, in Macomb. Together they shared 40 wonderful years of love, partnership, and adventures-and never spent more than a few days apart.
Cathy graduated from Yorkwood High School, where she held two records in cross country. She went on to become a certified Physical Therapy Aide and CNA, dedicating her life to caring for others. She worked faithfully at the Colchester Nursing Home until its closure and later continued serving at LaHarpe Davier and Grand Prairie Assisted Living. Her compassion, strong work ethic, and steady presence touched countless lives, and she was deeply respected by her patients, coworkers, and community.
Cathy leaves behind many broken hearts with her passing. She is survived by her children Becky (Bear) Denman, Brooke (Jerry) Bailey, Felicia (Glenn) Wachob, and Timothy (Jordyn) Roberts; her grandchildren Leo and Lyncoln Denman, Brynlynn and Tripp Wachob, and Conner and Orion Cannon. She is also survived by her siblings Chris (Amy) Sosnowski, Theresa Gruver, Mark (Becky) Hays, Ann (Jerry) Lauber, Brian (Amy) Hays, and Lisa (Tony) Miraglia; sisters-in-law Kathy Ray Hays, Sherri Hays, and Lisa Hays; her brothers- and sisters-in-law Judy (Gary) Haskins and Larry (Shirley) Roberts; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews; as well as her two beloved dogs, Baby Girl and Trigger.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tim Roberts; her parents, Alexander and Theresa Sosnowski; her mother-in-law, Virginia Roberts; her brothers Alex Sosnowski, Steven Hays, Robert Hays, Michael Hays, and Curtis Hays; her sister-in-law Mellisa Hays; her special niece, Diana Markland; and several other nieces and nephews.
Those who knew Cathy will remember her kind heart, warm smile, and unwavering love for her family-especially her children and grandchildren, who were her greatest joy. She found happiness in life's simple moments: being an avid Steelers fan, hosting the traditional Roberts Fish Frys, walking Argyle, dancing at the Tap, driving the golf cart for Tim, laughing at family gatherings, crocheting baby blankets, and playing cards on pitch night-her favorite pastime. In the 1980s, she was also a proud and devoted wife to Tim during his time in The Iron Axe Men of Central Illinois Motorcycle Club.
To many, she was lovingly known as Mama Cat, Aunt Cathy, or Nana Cat. She was a true best friend and the most faithful pen pal, always taking the time to stay connected with those she loved. Known as the kindest of souls, Cathy touched everyone she met with her warmth and compassion. She was also the biggest and loudest cheerleader for all of her "children," both real and adoptive, never missing a chance to encourage, support, and celebrate them. Cathy never knew a stranger and had a special gift for making everyone feel welcomed, valued, and part of the family.
After a long and courageous battle, Cathy is no longer in pain and is joyfully reunited in heaven with her husband, Tim.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the team at Beacon of Hope Hospice for the compassionate care and support they provided during her final days.
Funeral Services will be 11:00 A.M. Friday, September 19, 2025, at the Jones Funeral Chapel in Colchester. Burial will follow the services at Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Colchester. Visitation with the family will be 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. Thursday, September 18, 2025, at the Jones Funeral Chapel. Friends may sign the register book at the funeral home after 8:30 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home. Memorial is to the family to help with expenses. Condolences and memories can be expressed to the family at jonesmortuaryfh.com.
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Published by WGEM on Sep. 16, 2025.