Cathy Christine Shank, age 66, passed away at home after a two-year battle with ALS on July 18, 2024. Her husband of 36 years, Steve White, was by her side.

Born on August 27, 1957, in Sarasota, Florida, Cathy was the youngest of three daughters of the late Elizabeth Pauline Howell Shank and Ernest Charles Shank. She is survived by her husband, Steve; their children, Andy and Emily; and her sisters, Meribeth (Arden) and Wendy.

Cathy received her BA from Goshen College in Goshen, Indiana, and MA from Georgetown University in Washington, DC. It was at a New Year’s Eve party in DC that she met Steve. Together they built a beautiful family with their children, Andy and Emily. Above all, Cathy was a wonderful wife and mother. She also loved her pets, Buster and Morpheus.

Cathy had a fulfilling career in education, including teaching elementary school in Chicago, Illinois; English as a Second Language in Washington, DC; and a career in Adult Education for the State of West Virginia when the family moved there in 1992.

Cathy’s passion for life was reflected in her adventurous spirit. She enjoyed traveling – from Central America, Mexico, and Europe to the National Parks, Peru, and the Galapagos Islands. She was an avid gardener and had a genuine appreciation for the natural world. She also loved to immerse herself in novels and to share with her book club.

Known for her kindness, warmth, and welcoming nature, Cathy had a talent for making friends wherever she went. Her dedication to community and service endeared her to colleagues, students, classmates, neighbors, and numerous communities of friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Appalachian Reading Center, where Cathy worked part-time after retirement. This role was perhaps her most rewarding, as she helped young people learn to read. Donations can be made at https://www.appalachianreading.org/get-involved and will go towards a scholarship in her name, continuing her legacy of education and service.

A celebration of life will take place at a later date.

Cathy Christine Shank will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and the many lives she touched.

Condolences may be sent to Cathy’s family at www.barlowbonsall.com .

Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

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