Cathy grew up in Ybor City where she attended Our Lady of Perpetual Health Catholic School and earned an undergraduate degree from The University of Tampa.
Cathy moved to Atlanta in 1964 to start her career as a teacher. It was there that Cathy met her beloved husband Lawrence (Larry) Ridings and where they were married in 1974.
In 2003, Cathy and Larry moved to Nokomis where they found a community of friends and neighbors who became like family. Cathy loved volunteering at Our Savior Lutheran Church, where she sang in the choir and volunteered in the altar guild. She was an involved member of TOPS for over 30 years.
Cathy is preceded in death by her parents, Stella and Peter, her brother Pete, and her son David. For those she leaves behind Cathy was the beloved wife of 49 years to Larry, cherished mother of Jenny, adoring Nana to Katie and Cameron, and treasured family to David, Curt and Julie.
The family will hold a Celebration of Life at Our Savior Lutheran Church on Saturday, May 25, at 4 p.m., reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to Our Savior Lutheran Church located at 2705 N. Tamiami Trail, Nokomis, Florida 34275
For information, visit the National Cremation Society at nationalcremation.com