Sarah Catherine Newberry, 78, passed away peacefully in her dearly loved home with her family by her side on April 27, 2018. Born December 1, 1939, in Armagh City, Northern Ireland, Cathy was the youngest of six children and the only girl. She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Ellen Lavery, and four brothers, John, Patrick, Daniel, and Peter.

Left to cherish her memory are her loving husband of 42 years, Donald; her beloved daughter, Ruth Ellen and partner, Paddy Barrineau; and the “love of her life,” grandson, Felix Barrineau. Her brother Brian lives in Armagh.

Cathy came to the United States by herself in 1968, working in the rectory of a Catholic church in Arlington, Va. The upbeat and vibrant Cathy made many friends during her early years in the U.S. After meeting and marrying Donald in the Washington, D.C.-area, she started her “little family” and moved to Norfolk, Va., where she and Donald bought a home she called her “pride and joy.” She moved to Madrid, Spain, with her family for six years in the 1980s, becoming a U.S. citizen in the meantime, but always wanting to return to Norfolk, which she did in 1989. In 1992, Donald, Cathy and Ruth Ellen moved to West End, N.C., and were fortunate to spend two happy years in the midst of Donald's family. But again, Cathy wanted to be back in her beloved home in Norfolk and she did so in 1994.

Cathy was the ultimate homemaker and was a talented seamstress. She spent many hours making beautiful dresses and skirts for friends, herself and for Ruth Ellen. Additionally, she loved to knit. She made gorgeous Aran sweaters, hats, and scarves. Gardening, cooking and reading were other hobbies of hers. But above all, she took great pride in always being there for people and spent many hours on the phone talking with family and friends. Cathy stayed in touch weekly or daily with loved ones until her sudden illness. She leaves behind countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and life-long friends from around the world who will miss their calls from her.

She was a devout Catholic and was a long-time member of Blessed Sacrament in Norfolk. Her Irish brogue brought a smile to everyone and was a source of conversation with many a stranger, who always turned into a friend.

Three celebrations of life will be held at a later date in Norfolk, Va.; Carthage, N.C. (where she will be buried); and Armagh, Northern Ireland. Cathy always loved a good party and we hope you remember the good times she spent singing or dancing in the midst of a good get-together.