Catherine N. Willson

Catherine N. Willson passed away peacefully in Blaine, Washington, on April 23, 2026, at the remarkable age of 104. Catherine was born on February 14, 1922, in Warrenton, Georgia, to Jeptha Norris and Grace Dyer Norris. She was the second youngest of 11 siblings, all of whom preceded her in death.

Catherine’s life was defined by a rare combination of inner strength, determination, and bravery. At just 18 years old, she left her family's rural Georgia farm and traveled alone by bus to Southern California with only $5.00 in her pocket and a change of clothes. After 30 years in California—where she met her husband on a blind date and began her family—her adventurous spirit called her again. In 1969, showing that same characteristic grit, she packed up her teenage daughters and drove cross-country to relocate to Jacksonville, Florida, to be near her southern roots.

Known to almost everyone as "so sweet," Catherine’s gentle exterior was matched by a brilliant mind and a deep passion for nature. She loved plants and flowers and was known for knowing the names of almost every bloom she encountered. This attention to detail extended to her beloved family; she is survived by her two daughters, Marcia Hoelzen and Anna Willson; two grandchildren, Vanessa Palmer and Alex Hoelzen; ten nieces and nephews; and three generations of descendants. Remarkably, Catherine knew all of their names and exactly how they were woven into the family tree.

A woman of deep faith, Catherine cared intentionally about raising her children with traditional values. After moving to Florida, she joined Blanding Boulevard Baptist Church, where she served as the church secretary, bookkeeper, and Sunday School teacher. She thrived in these roles for nearly three decades before retiring at 75, though she remained a devoted and active member of her church community for the rest of her life. In her later years, her daughters moved her to Washington State to be near Marcia.

Catherine’s 104 years were a testament to the beauty of a life well-lived. She taught us that one can be both "so sweet" and incredibly strong, and that a journey of a thousand miles often begins with just $5.00 and a brave heart. Though she has left this earth, her memory will bloom in our hearts every time we see a flower she would have known by name. She has finally returned to the greatest garden of all.