Ms. Catherine "Cat" Garner Smith was born on August 14, 1943, in Toney, Alabama, in the area known as Mt. Lebanon, to the late Johnny Garner, Sr., and Fannie Pulley Garner. She transitioned from earth to glory on September 2, 2024 in the Regency Nursing Home, Huntsville, Alabama. Catherine left a lasting impact on her family and friends. She played an essential role in their lives as a daughter, sister, and an aunt.

Nurtured in a Christian home, she united with Meridianville Primitive Baptist Church at an early age under the pastorship of Elder Burwell. The uniqueness of her relationship with God was evident in her witness to countless young adults.

Catherine's educational preparedness was drawn from Mt. Lebanon school where she always received high academic accommodations. During her attendance at Council Training School, she was known for her Oratorical skills winning local and area contest. Her love of music and poetry radiated as she recited the Psalms of David. Catherine continued her educational pursuits at Tennessee State University.

Catherine was employed for over twenty-five (25) years as a Dormitory Counselor at Alabama A & M University, where she mentored countless young ladies. Her dedication and commitment gave powerful lessons of the value of resilience, trust, and faith.

Catherine is reunited with her parents and eight of her siblings. She leaves to cherish her memory: two loving sisters: Edna Garner Tibbs and Myrtle Garner Jolly both of Toney, Alabama; two devoted brothers: Johnny Garner, Jr., of Nashville, Tennessee, and Lorenzo (Kathy) Garner of Huntsville, Alabama; sister-in-love: Georgia Garner of Nashville, Tennessee; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

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Funeral service for Ms. Catherine Garner Smith will be held on Friday, September 6, 2024 at 12:00 P.M. in the Nelms Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Terrence Stewart officiating. Interment will follow in the Stewart Cemetery.