Cathy Ellen Brooks

  Cathy Brooks of Mill Spring, North Carolina, passed away in her home on May 25, 2026.

Born on July 4, 1950, West Hazleton, PA, she was the daughter of the late Ellsworth and Dolores Minnig. Cathy loved her two children and felt strongly about helping all children. She dedicated over 30 years to working with young children, starting with Polk County Social Services, moving on to the Partnership for Children organization as Executive Director and Director of Program and Planning in Polk and Rutherford counties. She was instrumental with the Child Abuse Task Force and Child Protection Team. Cathy was a talented artist and crafter and shared that hobby with family and friends. She was also a nature lover and her property is a certified wildlife habitat. She was also a great gardener, growing vegetables and flowers. 

     Cathy was predeceased by two brothers, Dave and Bruce Minnig of PA. Cathy is survived by her son Kris and wife Shannon, Glenville NC, a daughter Gretchen, sisters Judie Fichter and husband Lafayette, Drums PA and Carol, Columbus NC, brothers Ken Minnig and wife Pat, Davie, Fl, and Brian, Jupiter Fl, and 13 nieces and nephews.

     A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Memorial donations may be made to Partnership For Children, 338 Withrow Rd, Ste B, Forest City, NC 28043, or Foothills Humane Society, PO Box 985, Columbus, NC 28722.

     The family is grateful to the Hospice nurses and Cappy's caregivers, who treated Cathy with dignity and love.

     Closing Quote:

     "May your heart always be joyful

      And may your song always be sung

      May you stay forever young"     Bob Dylan

Sanders Funeral Home of Columbus, North Carolina.

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