Catherine Turner Christie

It is with heavy hearts that her family announces the passing of Catherine Turner Christie on August 16, 2023.  Catherine was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. At the age of 93, she gracefully embraced her journey beyond this world, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of her family and friends.

Born July 22, 1930, in Brunswick, Georgia, Catherine was a true southern belle who had many extraordinary accomplishments in her early years.  At the age of 8, she moved to Greensboro, Alabama and attended Greensboro High School.  She then attended Judson College and the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa - where she met her husband, John Christie. 

Upon moving to North Carolina, she graduated from the Carolina School of Broadcasting in Charlotte, NC, where she worked for WBT (TV and Radio) and WSOC, (TV). She also modeled for Belk’s and for Douglas Furrier in Carlotte.  She and her husband moved to Wadesboro, NC in 1968, and she took a position as a disc jockey at local WADE radio.  She was also an active member of the First United Methodist Church for many years.

As a devoted mother of two, she nurtured her sons with unwavering affection, guiding them through life’s challenges.  But her impact didn't stop at the role of a mother. “Caca” was an adored grandmother, a source of endless stories and laughter for her grandchildren. In her later years, Catherine embraced the title of great-grandmother, treasuring each new generation as a precious gift and an extension of the love she had cultivated throughout her life.

Catherine’s life journey was one of resilience and determination. Through challenges and triumphs, she remained steadfast, relying on her strong faith in God for guidance and support.  Perhaps her granddaughter, Laura, best described Catherne as “Timeless, fiercely protective, maternal, devoted, and loyal.  She was silly and clumsy – yet classy! She loved her family deeply.”

Left to cherish her memory are her two sons, Ken (Debra) Christie of Raleigh, NC and John Bryant Christie, Jr. of Wilmington, NC; grandchildren, Laura (Chris) Vore of Clayton, NC and Paul Ryan Christie of Raleigh, NC.  Great grandchildren Brayden, Rylee and Madison Vore; Sisters, Ethel Lee Dial Sellers (Gilbert) of Ramer, Alabama; Nan Leona Dial Hanburry (Milton) of Jacksonville, FL; Thomas Grady Dial (Janice) of Cartersville, GA; along with numerous beloved nephews and nieces. 

Catherine was preceded in death by her parents, Roderick and Ethel Turner of Greensboro, Alabama; brothers Riley Dial (Alice) of Hixon, TN; Jack Dial (Mary Lou) of Cartersville, GA; and sister Jacqueline (Jill) Dial Morgan Corbitt (Carl) of Brunswick, GA.