Catherine E. Fretwell

Catherine Elizabeth Fretwell, 90, of Staunton, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at Augusta Health Hospice of the Shenandoah House in Fishersville. 

Born on August 15, 1934, in Augusta County, she was the daughter of the late Marsellus "Sell" Claytis and Nellie Mae Monroe Fretwell.

Catherine graduated from Wilson Memorial High School in Fishersville. In addition to her high school education, she took numerous retail classes with the Staunton Chamber of Commerce, which equipped her with valuable skills that she later applied to her career. For many years, she worked as a pharmacy technician, first at T-Mart Drug Store and later at Terry Court Pharmacy.

She loved animals, particularly her beloved cat, Tinker, who provided her with companionship and joy. She also enjoyed reading, as well as spending time surrounded by flowers and indulging in the beauty of the outdoors. Catherine often spoke fondly of her early years on the family farm, which instilled in her a deep appreciation for nature. Her peaceful walks through beautiful Thornrose Cemetery were moments of tranquility she valued dearly.

She was a member of Staunton's Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses.

She is survived by her special niece, Diane Marie Berry Burns, as well as Belinda and Wanda. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers Earl Claytis and Marvin Marshall Fretwell and her sisters, Hazel Lee Fretwell and Emma Lou Fretwell Berry. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at Thornrose Cemetery in Staunton. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the graveside service, beginning at 1:00 PM.

The family would like to especially thank Yvonne Quick for all her compassion and aid as Catherine’s caregiver and dear friend. Catherine’s family would also like to extend their gratitude to Dr. Christopher Heck and the nurses and staff of Augusta Health Hospice of the Shenandoah for all their care during this time as well as to Janet and Bethany Werner and Gwen Eavers for all their visits and kindness.