Cathy Jones Graceson (Gallagher)
Cathy Jones Graceson (Gallagher), 67, was born on April 2, 1956, in Kanawha County, WV, and passed away on September 5, 2023, at Thomas Memorial Hospital in South Charleston, WV. She was the daughter of Dr. Barbara Jones Springer and the late Jack Lee Jones.
Cathy was a proud Daughter of Marshall University, with a degree in journalism and a Master’s in business administration. She was also a proud graduate of St. Albans High School, class of 1974. Cathy was an accomplished EEO trainer & HR specialist. Throughout her career, she worked at several organizations, including Union Carbide, Toyota, Dingess Rum Properties, and finishing her career with the state of West Virginia.
To know Cathy was to know that she had a large and pure heart. She cared deeply for others, especially those who needed an advocate. She always defended the right thing, even if it put her on a harder path. Having her in your corner provided a comfort that many are now left missing. She enjoyed giving back to her community through several organizations and was exceptionally passionate about supporting animal rescues. Brilliant and vivacious, she had a true appreciation for life, never took herself too seriously, enjoyed traveling the world, and was a voracious reader. However, make no mistake, she had no greater joy than being a mom and grandmother.
She is survived by her two daughters, Erin Gallagher & Annie Gallagher; three grandchildren, Colin Gallagher, Cara Gallagher & Claire Gallagher; mother, Barbara Jones Springer; stepfather, Don Springer; siblings, Jill Jones von Dohlen and Jeffrey Jones; aunt, Helen Rollins; nieces and nephews, Sara Jones, Michael von Dohlen, & David von Dohlen, as well as three dogs and one cat who will miss her very much. Cathy was preceded in death by her brother, Jack Allan Jones.
A tribute to Cathy’s life will be held on September 16, 2023, at Blessed Sacrament, with visitation at 10:00 AM and a mass at 11:00 AM. Cathy’s memory will be dearly cherished by all who knew her.
Memories and online condolences of Cathy may be shared by visiting http://snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Arrangements are in care of Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston.
Cathy was truly one of the kindness people I have known. I worked with her at Union Carbide and we continued our friendship even further when her daughter, Erin, was in one of my classes at the Community College. My love and prayers to the family and a special hug to Erin and her mother, Barbara.
Linda Sutton
Cathy was my coworker, my neighbor and my friend. I haven’t seen her in years since she left the phone company. But she was truly unforgettable. Sad but delighted to see the family she wanted—Erin and Annie — happened and thrived. Lady saw you both in a stroller at Lake Acres. Your mom was just a few houses from mine. Prayers to you and all those that loved her. If you’re listening Cathy, years ago when we at the phone company, I asked you for dog advice. Something you were uniquely qualified to give. What do you think of Shelties,I asked? Great dogs except they bark a lot, she advised. You were right! But I still have owned three. Rest in peace.
I miss our talks at work. I miss being around someone so intelligent & with so much character & wit. It’s nice to both like someone and admire them. I miss trying to help you win tickets on the radio! I miss hearing the stories about your children every day. I doubt it’s possible to be a more loving parent. It was truly an honor to know you and I hope you say hello to my mom for me.
I’ll miss you my sweet friend.