Catherine Maria Pinner

The daughter of Italian immigrants from the Abruzzo region and Rome, Catherine took great pride in her upbringing in Philadelphia and native Italian roots. Inspired by her beautiful Mother and Father, she instilled an old-fashioned work ethic and love of family in her own children.

She was educated at University of Pennsylvania, where she received a BS in Education and graduated Summa Cum Laude. After pursuing post-graduate studies at UPenn and the University of Florence, Italy, she taught at Oil Companies School in Tripoli, Libya, where she would meet her lifelong partner and fighter pilot husband, William, who was stationed at Wheelus Air Force base. She later continued studies at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Lynchburg College and Norfolk State University of VA.

Over the last 40 years, she taught a multitude of courses including World History, Latin, Italian, English Literature throughout Europe, primarily in the Netherlands, then upon return to the States, in Pennsylvania, Virginia and North Carolina. Most recently, Cathy taught AP English to seniors at South Johnston High School. A lifelong educator, she had an undying thirst for knowledge and a perpetual desire to ignite a profound passion for learning in all of her students. An avid traveler, musician and lover of the arts, she never stopped enjoying all of life's riches and experiences, even in the toughest days of her cancer battle, including a recent trip with her children to London, Montreal and Asheville.

Not only was she adored by her family and close friends, she touched countless students in her myriad years of teaching -- many of whom still write and call often and attribute their success and love of great literature, music and the arts to her effusive and colorful demeanor, wisdom and teachings.

Her tremendous grace, selflessness, charisma, courage, compassion, keen sense of humor and relentless spirit impacted everyone with whom she came in contact. She genuinely renewed and inspired everyone around her with her vibrant presence and infectious smile. Her smile, alone, had a beatific, magical quality that made others feel safe, assured and loved. To be loved by Cathy was to be loved by an angel. She will be so deeply missed.

Catherine is survived by her children, Mariana B. Pinner of Cary, Timothy H. Pinner of Cary, and William W. Pinner Jr., of Pittsboro; two grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Colonel William W. Pinner (USAF RET) and her daughter, Marcia Weatherly Pinner.

The family would like to thank Drs. Maha Elkordy and Mark Yoffe, and Janet Dickmander for the exceptional care they provided to Cathy throughout her courageous cancer battle; the staff at Cancer Centers of NC, Wake Radiology and Hospice of Wake County; Kim Jasek, Dorcas Kengere and Louise Bevel for their soothing presence and support.

A memorial service will be conducted on Friday, March 11 at 11 am at St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church in Apex. The family welcomes visitors at the home after the service.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Condolences may be sent through www.brownwynnecary.com.