Cathy Lynn Elliott

Cathy Lynn Elliott, a devoted mom and grandma, died Sept. 27, 2022. Cathy was born to Charles and Vivian Nelson in Burbank, Calif., on July 26, 1949. The Los Angeles area got too big for the family, and they moved to Fresno in the early 1950s.

Cathy was a mainstay at Trinity Lutheran Church. Her family worshiped at the original location at Belmont and Thesta, and helped to build the new church on Cedar Avenue. In 1988, Cathy joined the staff as the church secretary and faithfully served there until April of this year.

Cathy attended Fresno High School and Fresno City College, and worked in the credit department for the flagship Gottschalk's store on the Fulton Mall. She made lifelong friends before she left the store ahead of the birth of her first child, but, remained a devoted shopper. She often returned with her daughters to visit her co-workers, catching up over grilled cheese sandwiches in the Gottschalk’s restaurant.

There was nothing Cathy loved more than being a Mom and Nana. Photographs of her family surrounded her in her office, on her phone and throughout her home.

She is survived by her daughters, Melissa Van Diepen (Doug) of Modesto, Patricia Elliott of St. Louis, and Laurie McKeighan (Toby) of Arroyo Grande; granddaughters Abby Van Diepen and Maddie Van Diepen; and her brother, Chuck Nelson, Jr. She was predeceased by her parents.

A memorial service is set for 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 29, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 3973 N. Cedar Ave., Fresno 93726. Remembrances may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.stephensandbean.com for the Elliott family.