Cathie Dillard Carter, 71, of Martinsville, VA passed away on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at her home after a brief illness. She was born April 21, 1955, in Martinsville to Ernest Dillard Carter and Virginia Gunter Carter.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Susan Carter Moss and brother-in-law William “Bob” Moss, Jr.
She is survived by several cousins, extended family, and friends too numerous to count, including her traveling companion, Mary Dove, who she lovingly referred to as “Mom”.
Cathie attended Tulane University and developed a long-lasting love for all things New Orleans. After returning to Martinsville, she had a successful career of over 25 years as Sales & Marketing Manager at the Dutch Inn in Collinsville, VA. She then went on to be the Director of Marketing at Tacoma, Inc, a 25-store Taco Bell franchise. Cathie fostered personal friendships with the owners of both companies that continued throughout her life.
Cathie loved God, family and community. After her father’s death, her mother, Virginia, lived with Cathie more than 20 years until her passing. Cathie lived a life of service from founding the local Boys and Girls Club to rebuilding homes in New Orleans destroyed by Hurricane Katrina.
As a longtime member of Chatham Heights Baptist Church, she served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher, worked with WMU, Operation Christmas Child, church yard sales, free community meals, and started the “Knit Wits” club creating needed gifts for the community. She was a current member of First Baptist Church of Collinsville where her efforts continued.
The family wishes to thank all those who visited, called, sent cards or texts and who volunteered to help care for Cathie in her final days with special appreciation to Mountain Valley Hospice.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Cathie’s memory to Samaritan’s Purse, your local animal shelter or the charity of your choice.
In keeping with Cathie's wishes, a Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 2, from 2:00 to 4:00pm at Franck's Place in King's Grant, Martinsville, VA. Please join us for refreshments and to share your favorite memory of Cathie.
McKee-Stone Funeral Home of Martinsville, VA is serving the family. To express condolences online, please visit www.collinsmckeestonemartinsville.com.
