Catherine “Cathy” Marie DeGarmo Simons of Charlotte, North Carolina passed away peacefully at Hospice of the Valley in Tempe, Arizona
during the late afternoon of March 18, 2019 at the age of 66. She was born on August 11, 1952 in Canaan, West Virginia to Herbert “Herb” and Madalene Anita DeGarmo.
Cathy was the third of ten children and second daughter, five girls and five boys. Her childhood days were full of adventure and responsibility on the family farm. Her love for nature, gardening and flowers continued with her into adulthood and throughout her life. She graduated from Buckhannon Upshur High School in 1970. After graduation she attended Glenville State College in Glenville, West Virginia before transferring to Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. She received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and began working for a local bank in her home town soon thereafter.
Cathy married former husband Dirk Simons in the Washington, D.C. Temple on January 15, 1977. They raised their seven children in Charlotte, NC: Tiffany (Scott “Skeet”) Scienski, Tyler (Ashley), Tarrah (Bobbi) Brock, Amber (Warren) Smith, Cory (Celeste), Cameron, and Carissa (Zach) Madel. Her children were consistently encouraged by her soft yet influential voice. She had a quiet dignity that was beautiful to all that knew her. She loved all genres of music, dance and baking homemade pies. She was resourceful and creative. She was a dedicated disciple of Christ and especially loved being part of the Relief Society Organization and a Visiting Teacher in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She left her mark on the hearts of many life-long friends/family with her deep testimony of Jesus Christ. Her family is grateful for her example of faith and devotion and knows their family relationships will extend into the eternities.
Cathy was preceded in death by her parents, brother Mike, sister Sue Boyles, and grandson, Wyatt Smith. She is greatly missed by her seven children, 13 grandchildren, brother Jim (Tina), Edward “Ed” (Carla), John, Skip and sisters Barbie (Nahim) Alherimi, Sharon, and Sandy (Ron) Williams.
My mother was understanding, patient, and kind. She was beautiful both inside and out. I love you mom and will miss you till we meet again.
So sorry for your loss. Sending prayers
Friends and classmates of 1970 are saddened by Cathy’s death. Our prayers of comfort and love for her beloved family.
I graduated from high school with Cathy, and attended Glenville State College at the same time, also. She was such a lovely person, and I was so very sorry to learn of her passing. My thoughts and prayers are with her whole family during this difficult time.
Much love to you and your siblings, Amber. ❤️
Amber- I have been trying to find out where your mom was buried. What a beautiful tribute to your mom- no truer words were ever spoken. Your mom was definitely good inside and out. We were visiting teaching partners for 7 or 8 years- I knew your mom well and your whole family. I am so sorry about her passing. Please give my love to your brothers and sisters especially Tiffany, Tyler and Tarrah. I have moved back to Utah and I don’t hear about things until they are passed. You are so blessed to have such a sweetheart for a mom!
My love and condolences to your whole family,
Marguerite Searle