Catherine Bell Sullivan, lovingly known as Cathy, passed away on Friday, June 2, 2023, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Born on April 7, 1944, in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, Cathy was the daughter of the late Eloise Bell. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, and friend who touched many lives with her warm spirit and unwavering faith.
Cathy is survived by her husband, Capt. Bob Sullivan; daughters, Allie Harper (Les) and Judy Turek (Pete); two sisters, Carol Whitten (David) and Christy Cullipher; stepchildren, Tommy Sullivan (Toni), Neries Sullivan (Peggy), Douglas Sullivan (Kim), Rosie Almberg (Kevin), Liz Morantes (Gabe), Christy Bowers (Tracy), Alex Spring (Danette), and Ricky Spring (Amy); grandchildren, Ashleigh Woods (Mark) and Bill Harper (Ariana); many great-grandchildren, a great-great-grandchild, and a host of beloved extended family members and friends.
In her professional life, Cathy worked as a dietary manager for nursing homes and the Pasquotank Correctional Institution. Her dedication to her work was evident in the care and attention she gave to those she served. Colleagues and friends alike will remember Cathy for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to her community.
For the past 5 years, Cathy was an active member of Jarvisburg Church of Christ. She devoted her life to Christ and the service of others. Over the years, she was instrumental in teaching Sunday School, Ladies’ Bible studies, and supporting various ministries within many churches. Cathy’s love for her faith and her congregation was evident in the countless hours she spent in service and fellowship.
Beyond her work and church involvement, Cathy had a passion for the Girl Scouts and other community organizations. She was a dedicated volunteer and mentor, always eager to share her wisdom and experience with younger generations. Cathy’s selfless nature and genuine desire to help others made her an invaluable resource for those who knew her.
Cathy was known for her warm, welcoming personality and her ability to make friends with anyone she met. She truly did not know a stranger and was always eager to lend a helping hand or offer a kind word of encouragement. Cathy’s vibrant spirit and loving nature will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
The family will receive friends and relatives for a viewing and visitation Thursday, June 8, 2023, from 6:00 until 8:00 pm at Twiford Colony Chapel, Manteo. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, June 9, at Jarvisburg Church of Christ with Ministers Ron Lawrence and David Whitten officiating. At 2:30 pm, the family will gather for a graveside committal service in the New Hollywood Cemetery, Elizabeth City.
A memorial service will be held in Tuscaloosa, AL at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Cathy’s memory may be made to the Jarvisburg Church of Christ (121 Forbes Rd, Jarvisburg, NC 27947 or online at jarvisburgchurch.com).
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.