Cathi Lynne Vann

Cathi was born on June 13, 1956, at Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, to Freddie and Ronald Cox. As the daughter of a military man, she moved during her early years — first to Arizona, then Duncanville, and then to League City, Texas, where her family ultimately made their home.

She attended Clear Creek High School and graduated in 1974 before going on to study Chemistry at the University of Houston, earning her Bachelor of Science. Cathi dedicated the majority of her professional career to MRT Laboratories in Pasadena, Texas.

Cathi possessed a brilliant mind. She was an avid reader, a curious seeker, and a lifelong learner — whether she was studying a new language or mastering a new skill. She was an excellent “cheat code” for science homework for her grandchildren.

Her deep love for animals was one of her defining qualities. One of her favorite memories was a horseback-riding adventure in Arizona with the love of her life, Mickey. In retirement, she dedicated thousands of volunteer hours to SOCA (Saving Our Companion Animals - Fort Bend), demonstrating her passion through action.

A devoted Christian, Cathi was a faithful member of St. Mark’s United Methodist Church during her time in Baytown, and later St. Peter’s United Methodist Church, where she played a role in fundraising for the West Campus.

Cathi was called home at sunrise on May 29, 2025. She is now reunited with her beloved husband of 32 years, Mickey Vann, who preceded her in death in 2016, and her father, Ron.

She leaves behind her mother, Freddie; her son, Todd Vann, and his wife, Danielle; her daughter, Chelsea Gumm, and her husband, Jim. She is also survived by her sister, Tina Smith; brothers Anson Cox and Jason Blaylock and his wife, Angela. Cathi was a proud grandmother, lovingly known as “Auju,” to Delaney Vann, Madison Vann, Emma Colleen Gumm, Chappell Vann, and Lily Gumm. You could always find her at grandparents day, a baseball game, theater production, or musical performance with a smile and a hug.

Also mourning her passing are her sister-in-law Amanda Baker and husband Lynn; brothers Ben Barnett and wife Karen, Tim Barnett, and Walter Vann; as well as her nephew Anson Tyler Smith, nieces Bella and Bailey Blaylock, and nephew Brody Blaylock. She leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, June 18th, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Peter’s UMC West Campus in Fulshear, Texas. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Cathi’s honor to SOCA (Saving Our Companion Animals - Fort Bend) or to St. Peter’s UMC.

Arrangements are under the direction of Katy Funeral Home, Katy, TX.