It is with great sadness that we, the family of Catherine “Cathy” Francis announce her passing on Oct 2, 2022 at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family. Born May 29th, 1957, in Houlton, Maine, she was the proud daughter of the late Winthrop Murphy and Joan Francis, a residential school survivor.
Cathy was a true warrior. Her perseverance was unmatched, even during the most difficult of times, she would greet every new challenge with a positive attitude and never let any situation hold power over her.
Cathy was an incredible matriarch, mother and caretaker not only to her own family and children but to anyone who found their way to her doorstep. She opened her home to all. She was also a talented educator and worked at the Eskasoni School Board for many years. She was always early for class and her work ethic never faltered. Even while attending the VON day program she could be found helping facilitate activities for the others and aiding the staff.
Cathy was the epitome of altruism and a fearless provider for her family and community. She never turned down an opportunity to help someone in need and provide for her family. She was quick study and became an extraordinary basket maker, she made wreathes during the holidays, picked blueberries in the summer, harvested potatoes in the fall, tutored students during the school year and sold Tupperware and Mary Kay. Cathy also provided support for children in care by doing respite and becoming a foster parent.
Cathy was a Trekkie who loved sci-fi, baking, crafting and gardening. Cathy loved her bling, and had a wonderful jewelry collection, and often would showcase her love for the color purple.
Cathy leaves behind her children; Sayyedya, Virick Ji'j, Viricka, Melanie, Sue Anne and Amanda, as well as her loving grandchildren; Zaire, Ricky, Jace, Adara, Neleya, Sebastian, Marin, Rachel and Wolfgang. Also left to mourn are her siblings; Robin, Pam, Hazel, Bridget, Tony, Hubert, Ricky, Barbara, Terry, Verda, her beloved godchildren Breanne and Stephanie, godmother Sharon and uncle Hubert. Cathy will also be missed by her best friends; Helen, Betty, Lena, Ditdee and Angela. Cathy also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.
Cathy will be greatly missed by all those who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Cathy is predeceased by her parents Winthrop Murphy and Joan Francis, her foster parents, Eva and Earl Drake, uncles Frankie and Herman, sisters Patricia and Ruth, children Michelle and Brittany, and best friends Helen King and Catherine.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Eskasoni Home Care, ICU and IMCU nurses for the compassionate care they showed. You will forever be in our hearts.
A visitation will take place in her home at 10 Maple Street, starting at 7pm, Oct 11th and continuing until her Celebration of Life service on Oct 13th at 10:30am at Holy Family Parish, Deacon Tom Sylliboy officiating. Feast and salite will follow at the Gabriel Center. Interment will take place in Littleton Maine at a later date. To leave memories and condolences please visit www.twcurry.com.
