Cathy Fletcher

PINEHURST — Cathy Fletcher, age 66, of Southern Pines, passed away peacefully on May 14th at FirstHealth Hospice House in Pinehurst.

The second of three children to Robert and Eloise Curlee, Cathy was born on June 26, 1958 in Bennettsville, SC. She grew up in Greensboro, NC and attended Grimsley High School. She received her undergraduate degree in education from UNC-Greensboro and her master's degree from Wingate University.

Cathy impacted the lives of countless students throughout her long career as an educator. She taught elementary and middle school in Richmond, Gaston and Moore Counties in NC, as well as Marlboro and York Counties in SC. Her students recall her creative teaching methods, her sarcastic wit, and especially the mini shrine at her desk to her favorite NFL player, Tom Brady.

Cathy married Graham Jenkins in 1980. They resided together in Rockingham, NC and raised two beautiful daughters, Abbey and Catherine. Cathy married Scott Fletcher in 1999, and they resided the past 24 years in Southern Pines.

Her world revolved around family and friends, and Cathy's "happy place" was wherever she could spend time with those closest to her. Cathy developed an early passion for cooking, which she lovingly passed along to Abbey and Catherine, and to her grandchildren, who called her "Cookie." Some of the fondest family memories are of young grandchildren sitting on a kitchen counter and holding a mixer to help Cookie make chocolate chip cookies.

Years of teaching her favorite subject of ancient world history led to her love for travel that took Cathy and Scott, as well as numerous friends and family members, to such locations as Italy, Paris, Boston, and many other exciting locations. Her love for the outdoors led to countless enjoyable trips to various US national parks and the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Cathy enjoyed planning these adventures, and was known to immediately, upon return from one trip, begin planning the next. The family will continue the tradition of a Thanksgiving trip to the NC Mountains to cut the family Christmas tree. Cathy's physical presence, and her cookies will be forever missed, though she will always remain present in spirit.

Cathy was also an avid reader, and instilled this love for reading in her daughters and grandkids. Most visits to Cookie and Pa's house included a walk to the local bookstore. She was a longtime member of a book club made up of a close knit group of amazing friends. Their monthly gatherings would include spirited conversation, a delicious meal, and even some discussion of good books they had been reading.

An animal lover at heart, Cathy contributed generously to various animal rescue organizations and promoted pet adoption. Over the years, she and Scott shared their home with numerous dogs and cats. Until shortly before her passing, it was common to see Cathy and Scott walking their dog, Sophie, along the streets and sidewalks of Southern Pines.

Cathy's positive outlook on life, and her unwavering faith, sustained her through her illness. Sunday mornings were special to her, and she loved the morning service at Emmanuel Episcopal Church. Special thanks to Rev. Morris Thompson for his meaningful sermons, frequent visits, prayers and words of encouragement.