Catherine Mays

Catherine Mays, affectionately known as "Cat, entered eternal rest on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at McLeod Hospice Care. She was born on January 11, 1950, in Florence County, South Carolina, to the late Leona Graham and Willie Mays. She was also preceded in death by her beloved sister, Mary Mays Wells.

Cat received her education in the Florence County Public School System and graduated with the Class of 1968 from the historic Wilson High School — a proud Tiger to the end. She later pursued studies at Florence-Darlington Technical College, where she earned credentials in the field of Electricity, showing her determination to break barriers and work with excellence in all she pursued.

A devoted and diligent worker, Cat spent many years employed at General Electric (G.E.), where she earned the respect of her peers for her reliability, independence, and strong work ethic. She retired at the age of 62, having built a career she was proud of and a legacy that continues through her family and community.

Catherine was the matriarch of her family — a strong, wise, and fearless woman who led with love, purpose, and integrity. She was well known in her neighborhood as a no-nonsense woman who believed in hard work, personal responsibility, and faith in God. Her guidance shaped generations, especially the young women she mentored, often reminding them to not only bring something to the table, but to own their own table.

Cat's spiritual journey was rooted in her deep love for the Lord. She received the Holy Ghost under the leadership of Overseer K. Wiggins at Mt. Tema Holy Church in Darlington, South Carolina. Later in life, as her health declined, she relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina, under the care of her devoted daughter. There, she became a member of Christ Deliverance Temple (CDT), where she worshipped faithfully under the leadership of Apostle C.E. and R.T. Luckey.

Left to cherish her memory are: her loving daughter, Varrdell (Jonathan) Jackson of Charlotte, NC; her grandchildren: Varrshea Vrieshawnia Mays of Florence, SC and Davon Jahlonte Mays of Atlanta, GA; her great-grandchildren: Valashia Mariel Echols Mays, Vashad Martez McCall Mays, and Naomi Mays Allen of Charlotte, NC; her brother: James "Jimmy" Graham; her niece: Deborah Wells; her dear friend and spiritual mentor: Overseer K. Wiggins, a host of extended family members, spiritual brothers and sisters, and lifelong friends.

Catherine "Moma Cat" Mays leaves behind a powerful legacy of strength, faith, and resilience. Her love, wisdom, and presence will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Family will receive friends daily from 4 PM to 7 PM at 917 Gladstone Street, Florence beginning Monday, October 6, 2025.

Please keep the family of Catherine Mays in your thoughts and prayers.