Catherine Rhodes Stilley

Catherine was born July 13, 1925 in Jones County to the late Rachel and Wardell Rhodes. She was educated in the Jones County and New Bern school systems.

She was a member of Ruth’s Chapel Free Will Baptist Church for over 60 years where she was a choir member, a Sunday school teacher and a kindergarten teacher, and served faithfully wherever she was needed. She worked for many years as a substitute teacher for the Craven County school system, and was loved and respected by her students.

Catherine was a wonderful daughter, sister, wife, mother, and grandmother. She was an exceptional cook who delighted in cooking for her family and friends. She played an important role in her grandchildren’s lives. Catherine shared her Christian faith with everyone she met, and was a great example for all who knew her.

Catherine was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Henry Stilley Sr. Sister Polly Yates, and brother Hugh Rhodes.

She is survived by daughters Patsy Hawkins and husband, Burney; Carolyn Brock and husband Robert; son Henry (Bud) Stilley, Jr. and wife Debbie; nine grandchildren, Steve Hawkins (Allie), Michael Hawkins (Marge), Todd Hawkins (Lynn), Robyn Johnston (Scott), David Hawkins, Jeff Brock (Jennifer), Courtney Morgan (Tod), Tyler Stilley, Trey Stilley; ten great grandchildren; sisters Hart Crawford and Rachel Willis; brother Wallace Rhodes; sister-in-law Mattie Casey; and 18 nieces and nephews.

Family will receive friends Saturday, November 26, from 6:30 until 8:30 pm at Cotten Funeral Home in New Bern. At all other times, the family will be at the home of Carolyn and Robert Brock, 114 Dogwood Lane, Trent Woods. Funeral services will be held Sunday November 25, 2011 at 2:00 pm at Cotten Funeral Home, officiated by Rev. Dennis Wiggs. Interment will follow at Greenleaf Cemetery. Catherine’s grandsons will serve as pallbearers: Jeff Brock, Trey Stilley, Scott Johnston, Steve, Michael, and Todd Hawkins.

Special thanks to Dr. Kent Lucas, his Nurse Carrie Rivenbark , Craven County Hospice. and to her Caregivers.

Memorial donations may be made to Craven County Hospice or Ruth’s Chapel Free Will Baptist Church.

Arrangements under the direction of Cotten Funeral Home, New Bern, NC.