John Frederick Cathey went home to meet his Lord and Savior on January 12, 2026. Born in Sanford N.C., he moved shortly thereafter to Gastonia, N.C. where he resided until his early twenties. He attended Ashley High School (Ashbrook) (64) where he was a member of the National Honor Society. Upon graduation he attended North Carolina State University (69) where he graduated with a B.S. in Engineering. He was the son of the late Frederick (Dick) and Charlotte (McNair) Cathey.

John moved to the Lancaster Pa. area after graduation where he worked as a mechanical engineer for Armstrong World Ind, Hershey Foods, and L.L. Donnelley where he retired after 42 years.

John was a gifted artist, photographer, scout master and musician, playing both guitar and banjo with a special fondness for Bluegrass. He also enjoyed old English sports cars, running, and sailing.

John is survived by his loving wife Kathy of Landisville, his children Greg Cathey of Lititz and Robin Harnish (wife of Tom) of Lancaster and one brother, Alec Cathey of High Point, N.C.