Marian Catherine Ives

Marian Catherine Palash Ives, age 81, passed away at home on October 14, 2025 surrounded by her family after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. In the early hour of that morning, a vibrant light was extinguished as the Lord called back home the wonderful soul he bestowed on us temporarily.

Cathy, as she was known by many, was born in Marlin, TX on January 2, 1944 to Lula and Marion Palash. She spent the early years of her childhood in Bremond, TX, surrounded by a very large extended family. Always a momma hen, she enjoyed being the oldest of her siblings, Clarice, Joe, and Helen. It was in her nature to always want to be of service, even from a young age, motivating others to help. Knowing that it was a lot of work, she tried her best to reward those that helped, with a treat or making them something “special.” This passion continued throughout her life.

She met the love of her life, Joe Ives, and within 6 weeks they were engaged. With a deep and unwavering bond, they were married on April 15, 1972. They were then blessed with 4 children: Jason, Lisa, Julia and Laura. A very proud mom and homemaker, and ever present in her children’s lives, she devoted her time to school functions, PTA meetings, assisting with church events/functions and teaching CCE, instilling in them the value of helping the community. A woman of deep compassion and generosity, she always made her home available and was often the hangout spot for so many of her children’s friends, who she loved like they were her own children.

She was an avid sports fan, but her favorite by far was the Colt 45s/Houston Astros. A season ticket holder for many years, she taught all of her children how to keep baseball stats, and could rattle off in depth information about seasons and players that would often baffle people. Her collection of Astros memorabilia, autographs, programs, and baseballs are impressive.

She never met a stranger. It was often said, that she could make friends with a brick wall. Her smile was infectious and she would go out of her way to let people know they are “seen” and appreciated. Her kindness touched many lives and her gentle spirit will be remembered by all who knew her.

Cathy is survived by her devoted husband, Joe Ives; her children, Jason Ives and wife Renee Ives, Lisa Laughinghouse and husband Chris Laughinghouse, Julie Valant and husband Tanner Valant, and Laura Safari and husband Thomas Safari. She also leaves behind her siblings Clarice Ratliff, Helen Anderson and husband Rick Anderson, and Joe Palash and wife Jeanette Palash.

She leaves behind 16 grandchildren, Christian DeBello, Cierra Ives, Belle Valant, Fallon Ives, Makenna Ives, Holly Ives, Gabby Valant, Joe Valant, Kasia Valant, Abdallah Safari, Aaliya Safari, Abdurrahman Safari, Maryam Safari, Juliana Ives, Vivi Valant, and Umar Safari, and 2 great grandchildren, Avery and Winnie DeBello.

Cathy’s legacy of love, generosity and grace will live on in the hearts of her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A visitation will take place on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at Earthman Bellaire Funeral Home, located at 4525 Bissonnet St. Bellaire, TX 77401, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM with a recitation of the holy rosary at 7:00 PM.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, located at 6921 Chetwood Dr, Houston, TX 77081, on October 22, 2025, at 10:00 AM. The burial will follow at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery, located at 12800 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77077, on October 22, 2025, at 1:00 pm.