Catherine Smith

Catherine Helen Smith, 85, of Washington, went to be with her beloved husband, Robert D. Smith, in heaven on Wednesday, February 13, 2025, the day before Valentine's Day and two days before their 68th wedding anniversary. She passed away at her residence, surrounded by her family.

She was born Catherine Taylor on September 25, 1939, in Pontiac, IL, to Harold and Georgia Taylor. She married Robert D. Smith on February 16, 1957, in Peoria.

She is survived by her children, Steven Smith, Kim (Norbert) Bendixen, Kelly Ruder, and Krista Cooper, all of Washington, and Kara (Carrie) Smith of Peoria; grandchildren Ashley, Cassy (Ryan), Chevie (Levi), Taylor (Jake), Kiley, David, and Heidi (Paul); and great-grandchildren Pierce, Colby, Kitner, Maylee, Mac, Jack, James, Ty, Tayte, Aaliyah, and Chance.

Cathie was a proud Episcopalian farmer's wife and homemaker. She worked for the IRS in Bloomington. She was an icon in the Illinois Gymnastics community, co-founding the Gym Corner in Washington, IL. She made friends quickly and kept them for life. Her hobbies included cooking, spending time by her pool, and all types of sports.

She was the ultimate "sports" mom and always welcomed everyone around her table.

A Celebration of Cathie's Life will be at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, March 7, 2025, at Connect Church in Washington, with Pastor David Jane officiating. Visitation will be two hours prior to the service at the church. Private family inurnment will be held prior to services. Memorial contributions may be made in Cathie's memory to the family for a charity of their choice. Cathie's memorial website and online condolences may be accessed at www.masonfuneralhomes.com. Funeral and cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Mason White Funeral Home in Washington.