Cathy Gibbons

Cathy Colonel Gibbons passed away unexpectedly, surrounded by her sons on Friday, June 12, 2020.  Cathy was born on March 7, 1949, in New Richmond, Ohio.  She was the second of seven children born to the late John Martin “Jim” Colonel, and Virginia Hartman Colonel.  Cathy was raised in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, but made North Carolina her home for the 45 years preceding her untimely passing.

Cathy was a curious and artistic woman, and loved learning new things.  She was known for her adventurous spirit, traveling all over the world to such places as Guatemala, France and Hong Kong.  Cathy shared her passion for traveling with her sons, creating memories that will last a lifetime.  While Cathy loved the mountains, her heart was always at the beach, living for several years at Atlantic Beach in North Carolina.  Cathy’s passions included gardening and raising dogs, and she leaves behind her three beloved puppies Wookie, Chew Chew and Teddy Bear.

Cathy had a varied career but primarily worked as a jeweler for 30 years.  She owned and operated C.F. Neese Jewelry in downtown Burlington, North Carolina for many years.  Cathy later worked as a paralegal for her son, Todd Smith, at his law practice in Graham, North Carolina.  Cathy was indispensable to Todd’s law practice and helped him grow his business into a successful and thriving law practice.

Everyone who knew Cathy knows that she was a free spirit and one-of-a-kind.  Cathy lived her life to the fullest on her own terms, with no regrets.  She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Cathy is survived by her loving sons, Todd Smith (Stacey) and Nathan Smith (Miranda); her 6 grandchildren: Scott Albright, Benjamin Albright, Zach Carper (Cheyenne), Eleanor Shropshire-Smith, Olivann Shropshire-Smith, her newest granddaughter, Elisabeth Smith; and her great-grandchildren, Channing and Chloe Carper.  She is also survived by her former husband and faithful friend, George “Mike” Gibbons; her sisters and brothers; and a host of nieces and nephews.  Friends and family will gather to celebrate Cathy’s life at a reception from 5:00 – 7:00 PM on Friday, June 26, 2020 at Lowe Funeral Home and Crematory, located at 2205 S. Church Street in Burlington, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Cathy’s memory to the Humane Society of Alamance County, 2213 Edgewood Avenue, Burlington, North Carolina.

We encourage you to send condolences and sign the online register book at www.lowefuneralhome.com.