Catherine Yvonne Minks

Born in Louisville, Kentucky, to Evelyn Howell Hess and Edward Louis Hess (both preceding her in death), Catherine’s life began with humble and challenging circumstances that would shape her extraordinary strength. As the eldest of five sisters—Evelyn Ann Martin, Carolyn May Brooks (deceased), Mary Louise Troutman, and Barbara Jean Durham—Catherine took on responsibility beyond her years, helping care for her siblings in a very difficult time in the home as well as in the world. She developed a strong spirit of determination, compassion, and quiet leadership that would define her life.

At just 16 years old, Catherine married the love of her life, Jack Lamar Minks. Despite having married so young and basically growing up together, they eventually began building their life in Hampton, Virginia, and raising three children. Catherine played a pivotal role in that journey—supporting Jack’s career at Newport News Shipbuilding and even teaching him to read so he could qualify for the apprenticeship that would change the course of their family’s future.

Attending Catholic School, but unable to complete schooling to the 12th grade, Catherine proudly earned her GED, which gave her a wisdom, resilience, and work ethic that far exceeded any formal education. In every sense, she transformed adversity into opportunity, laying a foundation for her children, their families and the generations to come. Because of her strength and sacrifice, her family today reflects a legacy of achievement, education, and stability that stands as a testament to her life’s work.

Catherine was a devoted and loving mother to Jack Lamar Minks, Jr. (Sheryl Benton), Catherine Y. Holden (William, deceased), and Ricky Minks (deceased). One of her greatest joys was her family, and she worked at creating a home with love, encouragement, and support. She was blessed with six grandchildren: Tracey Minks Hancock (Joe), Dawn Holden (Sonny Naylor), Kimberly Gonzalez (Fred), Jessica Minks, Blaine Minks (Shaymeya), and Tyler Minks; and six great-grandchildren: Ana Hancock, Cora Naylor, Mateo Gonzalez, Alyssa Dupree, Blaine Minks Jr., and Lyla Minks.

A woman of deep and abiding faith, Catherine was a devoted member of West Hampton Baptist Church for years, where she faithfully served in the Disabled Youth Ministry and volunteered with Vacation Bible School. Upon Jack’s retirement and moving to the Lake Gaston area, she continued her ministry at Olive Branch Methodist Church in Gasburg, Virgina, where she welcomed everyone with warmth, sang in the choir, and with others developed what was called, The Prayer Bear Ministry. Her faith was not only spoken—it was lived daily through acts of kindness, service, and encouragement. She loved hosting family and friends at her Lake home, creating a place where memories were made and bonds were strengthened. Even in her later years, after moving to Williamsburg and Richmond, Virginia, the friendships and connections she had through her Lake church and community remained.

Catherine found joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments. She was an avid gardener, loved butterflies, hummingbirds and angels, a talented crocheter who lovingly made blankets for all her family, a proud Mary Kay representative, loved working for Precision Printing (a family business), and a constant source of encouragement to all who knew her. She had a special way of making others feel seen and loved, often singing “You Are My Sunshine” to those she held dear and saying “This is the Day the Lord has Made” to anyone she met, including strangers.

Catherine’s family recognizes her as a woman of remarkable resilience and with their love and support, she faced life’s challenges—including illness, COVID, and stroke—with courage and unwavering faith. To the very end, she remained devoted to her Savior, pointing to His picture on her wall when asked how she was doing or who she was talking to. Her life is a testament to faith, perseverance, and the enduring impact of a woman who refused to let her beginnings define her limits. Her legacy will live on in her family, generations to come, the lives she nurtured, and the love she gave so freely.

The family will receive friends for a visitation that will be held at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Chapel, 2551 North Armistead Ave, Hampton, Virginia 23666, on May 3, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. A Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Chapel, 2551 North Armistead Ave, Hampton, Virginia 23666, on May 3, 2026, at 3:00 pm.

The family asked that in lieu of flowers, please send donations to:

Olive Branch United Methodist Church

4141 Gasburg Road

Gasburg, Virginia 23857