Catherine McLean Walden

Catherine was born on June 18, 1952 in the town of Lumberton, NC and grew up there, along with the boy that would eventually be her husband, Archie Walden. She headed away to school at East Carolina University and graduated with a degree in Education in 1974. Being an ECU Pirate was a point of pride for Catherine, and she was loyal to her Alma Mater and their sports teams her whole life. She worked as a Special Education teacher in the Wake County School System for her entire career. Catherine had a real heart for her students, often involved in activities outside of school to benefit them.

Catherine married Archie Bailey Walden on December 30, 1973. They made a life together for 43 years, before Archie passed away in 2016.

Catherine was an avid water skier and slalom boarder in her younger years, and loved walking her entire life. She was very fond of animals, loving cats the best. Catherine loved to crochet and put her talents to use as a member of the Prayer Shawl Guild at Edenton Street United Methodist Church. She was also a devoted member of the Chancel Choir for 20 years there, and played in one of their handbell choirs.

Catherine is survived by her sister Dickey McLean Adams of Raleigh. They were the best of friends, and although she had a home in Garner, Catherine spent a good part of her last years in Raleigh in the company of her sister. They were an item at the local Hardee’s where they went for lunch everyday. The sisters shared a sweet and special relationship.

Catherine was predeceased by her husband, Archie Bailey Walden; by her parents, James McKinnon McLean and Frances Yon Freeman McLean; and by her brother-in-law, Franklin Vernon Adams.

Catherine’s memorial service will be held on Sunday, May 18th at 2:00 pm in the sanctuary of Edenton Street United Methodist Church, 228 West Edenton Street, Raleigh, NC 27603.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Music Ministry of Edenton Street UMC would be appreciated.

Service arrangements provided by Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, NC.