Mary Catherine "Cathy" Lawrence's Obituary
Cathy Lawrence, 64, of Valmeyer, Illinois formerly of Decatur, passed away Saturday, April 14, 2018 at St. Anthony’s Hospital in St. Louis with her family by her side.
Cathy was born June 27, 1953 in Danville, Illinois the daughter of Marvin and Viola (Roller) Goodhue. She was a Certified Surgical Technologist retiring with over thirty years of service. Through the years she wore many hats, and before her illness became serious she enjoyed being a part time DJ. She married Duane Lawrence in 1987 and remained a devoted wife until her passing. Cathy enjoyed being with her family above all things, and was an amazing and generous grandmother to her three grandchildren. When she wasn’t with her family, she enjoyed cooking and baking and was often the recipient of her daughter Janet’s frequent FaceTime video calls to help her with a recipe. She rescued many meals from being a disaster, and her son in law is eternally grateful. Cathy had a larger than life personality with a quick wit and sense of humor. Spending time with her was full of hugs, chocolate, and sidesplitting –trying not to pee your pants laughter.
She leaves behind her husband Duane, daughters Laura (Douglas) Denney and Janet (Ed) Holmes, grandchildren Brandon Holmes, Isabella Denney, and Jason Holmes, brother Marvin “Shakey” (Susan) Goodhue Jr., and sisters Liz (Merle) Stewart, Henryetta (Joe) Lohden, and Jeannie (Tim) Van Zant.
Cathy was preceded in death by her parents, brother Bobby Goodhue, and sisters Wanda Lee, Leoda, and Ada Goodhue.
The family would like to especially thank all the Drs and nurses at St. Anthony (in her words, Holy Tony’s) hospital that gave Cathy amazing care and friendship, including one she nicknamed “Dr. Sexy Pants”.
Services to celebrate Cathy’s life will be 10:00 AM Saturday, April 21, 2018 in Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 5-7 PM Friday, April 20, 2018 in the funeral home. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery. Memorials in Cathy’s honor may be made to the wishes of the family in care of Janet Holmes.
Arrangements by Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Ave. Decatur, IL. Please view the online obituary, send condolences, and share memories at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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