Today we gather to honor and celebrate the life of our beloved Katherine Washington, lovingly known as “Mother,” who departed this life to be present with the Lord on November 6, 2025, at the age of 97.

Katherine Washington was born on February 20, 1928, in Fairhope, Alabama, to her mother, Laura Coleman. As the middle child of three, she grew up with her older sister, Mary Lucille McGrahm-Bodiford, and her younger brother, Frank Coleman. Katherine later married Cleon Washington Sr. in Bay Minette, Alabama, in 1946. In 1951, the couple relocated to Cleveland, Ohio, where they began a fulfilling life together centered around family and love. They enjoyed 48 years of marriage.

Throughout her 97 years, Mother touched countless lives through her strength, kindness, and unwavering love. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. Her family was her pride and joy, and she poured her heart into each generation with selfless care and grace.

Mother loved to cook, bake, clean, shop, and care for her family. Early in her career, she cleaned for the Goldhammer family for four years and cleaned “The Big House” in Shaker Heights. Later, she worked at Cleveland State University for ten years, serving as a cook, elevator operator, and helping wherever she was needed. She retired from Cleveland State in 1995.

Her home was always a place of welcome, warmth, and unconditional love. Whether she was preparing a meal, sharing a homemade treat, or simply making sure everyone was cared for, she made all who entered feel comforted and valued. She lived humbly, gave generously, and loved without limits.

Mother departed this life on November 6, 2025, at Grove City Senior Living Facility. She was preceded in death by her mother, Laura Coleman; her beloved husband, Cleon Washington Sr.; her sister, Mary Lucille McGrahm-Bodiford; her son, Cleon Washington Jr.; and her daughter, Mia Lloyd, who all welcomed her home.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children: Flora Bennett, Louise Washington, Betty (Douglass) Norris, and Lynn Washington; her grandchildren: Michael King, Donald King, Tracey King, Cinda “Terri” Cianelli, Eric King, Cynthia King, Ronald King Jr., and Corey King (predeceased), Marquise Campbell, Reginald Washington, Nicole Fears, Robin Washington, Aletra McCall, GeoVonty Thompson, Douglas Norris Jr., Ben Vidmar, Heather Vidmar Miller, April Washington, Lamar Washington, Amber Norris, Dar’ron Brown, and Tamiyah Washington. She also leaves behind her great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and a host of family and friends who will forever cherish her love and legacy.