Catherine Winslow Howard Moses was born in Baltimore, MD on October 23, 1937 to Michael and Evelyn Howard. She studied piano at the Peabody Institute and was an accomplished classical pianist. She graduated Radcliffe College in 1958 with a degree in Biochemical Sciences and went on to get a Master’s degree in social work at Columbia University, formerly named the New School of Social Work, and graduated in 1961.
In June 1961, she married her beloved, David Moses z”l, in New York City and shortly thereafter moved to Israel and had two daughters. In 1967, the family of 4 moved back to the USA for what was to be a short break to reconnect with family and find new employment opportunities but found themselves establishing roots and remained here. Their son was born in Alexandria, VA and then the family moved to Washington, DC.
In 1976 Catherine started a part-time job at Gallaudet University, first learning intensive ASL and then becoming an instructor. The family moved to Takoma Park in 1978 and she became a full-time professor of social work. Her leadership was instrumental in developing and securing accreditation for Gallaudet’s Master’s of Social Work (MSW) program which she directed until health challenges forced her early retirement.
Despite her disability in later years, she exhibited an enormous inner strength, resilience, and fight. She transcended these physical challenges and did not let them dampen her spirits or her ability to find joy and laughter with family and friends around her. She led a full life and was lovingly surrounded by family in her last hours.
She was predeceased by her husband, David z”l, in 2022. Survivors include her children: Michelle (Carl), Ellie (Abe) and Jonny (Jimena), her brother, Russell Howard (Roz), and seven grandchildren: Emma, Sam, Micah, Amalia, Eva, Emilia and Yael. May her memory be for a blessing and an inspiration for anyone who knew and loved her.
Contributions in Cathy’s memory may be made to the Catherine H Moses Award in the Department of Social Work at Gallaudet University, Lifeline for the Old or Friends of Yad Sarah.
