Lela Catherine Thomas (Cathy), 84, of Lawrence, KS, passed away peacefully during the afternoon of February 27, 2017, at her home in Brandon Woods at Alvamar, with family at her bedside.
Cathy was born April 7, 1932, in Long Beach, California, the daughter of William Wesley Davis Bailey and Nellie Mae McLaughlin Bailey. She grew up on a small farm in Marshall, MO, among her siblings, Clifton D. Bailey, Joanna Grandbouche, Mary Ellen Brown, and her eldest brother, the late John W. Bailey. The stories of their adventurous childhood were always entertaining.
Cathy graduated from Marshall High School in Missouri. She later married William Gerald Hunt and was blessed with two daughters, Patricia Meadors, and Pamela Neugebauer.
Cathy spent more than 30 years in Kansas City before relocating to Lawrence 32 years ago.
She worked as a telephone operator for Southwestern Bell for 22 years and later worked for the Pelathe Community Resource Center before retiring.
Cathy was a caring and loving mother. She was very proud of her family and was even more thrilled to be a grandmother to her 5 grandchildren, Melanie Hunt-Miller, Rudolph C. Neugebauer III, Dejon Brown, Natalie Stewart, and George L. Meadors II. She was also blessed with 5 great-grandchildren, Trey and Noah Miller, Emma, Keira, and Declan Stewart. She was grateful to have two loving son-in-laws, Rudy C. Neugebauer II, and the late George L. Meadors. She also had many close, and very loving nieces and nephews. A true matriarch.
Cathy made many dear friends throughout her long and eventful journey. She loved the holidays, birthdays, and family get-togethers; any chance to spend time with her family was important to her. She loved to celebrate life and have fun. She helped make so many good memories for those who had the joy of knowing her. A good friend, Larry, recently said “she always had a smile for me.”
Cathy was known for her feisty, yet good sense of humor. With that twinkle in her eye, she wasn’t afraid to speak her mind. Still, she always had a warm place in her heart for everyone. She will be missed by all that knew and loved her.
Family and friends will gather at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home for a memorial service, 601 Indiana Street, Lawrence, KS 66044, on Saturday, March 18, 2017 at 2:00 p.m.
Cathy is going on to a better life where there is no more suffering. I remember all the fun times we had as teenagers. And what a good person she was.
We, my Mom and I,will greatly miss Cathy. She and Mom played Bingo and my Mom really enjoyed her. Our condolences are with the family and know she is keeping Heaven in line. Our thoughts and prayers.
To the family of Cathy, just wanted you all to know how dear Cathy was to me. She was always so excited coming to my cooking classes and trivia groups. I was always good for a “laugh” with her. She is greatly missed, and was a pleasure being able to know her.
I always felt such love and support from Cathy. She was a warm and accepting person with many qualities that I admired. I have a wonderful memory of her in Dejon’s wedding. Thank you for that. And, Melanie and Rudy thanks for sharing your memories and your love for your grandmother. It’s so nice that you were close and supportive. I know you miss Cathy, but the love you shared can live on inside you! Pam and Patty you are wonderful daughters! I send you all my love and happy memories of Cathy. Rhonda
My heartful thoughts n prayers go to ypu all.
Patti n Melanie hugs to you. My God give you inner strength n peace knowing Cathy is in a higher place celebrating.
RIP Beauitful Lady to was a pleasure to know you.
Verna n Family
Every condolences to the family. I remember your mom always being welcoming. I have good memories of spending the night when I had no business leaving the house. She was kind that way. Rest in peace Mama Cathy.
R.I.p beautiful even though I never met you I know u was a wonderful person condolences to your family especially you Melanie love you
Patty and family, I am sorry for your loss. I will always remember your mom’s kindness when she allowed me to stay in her home when I needed it. Always happy memories.
Pam, I’m very sorry to learn of your mother’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.
Patti I am so sorry for your loss but just know your mother is now at peace and looking over you as another beautiful angel
I’m so sorry for your loss, I’m sure she will keep Heaven on their toes. Thinking of you all during this difficult time. Love you sharing all your memories ❤
Rest in peace my grandma! I love & will miss you until we meet again. May you have eternal peace. The holidays will never be the same!!
Rest in Peace my lovely sister with our Mom and Dad and brother. I love you more till we meet again.
Your sis, Mary Ellen