Obituary of Cynthia Joan Catchings

Obituary for Cynthia Joan Catchings, AKA Joanne, Brownie: Cynthia Joan Catchings, known to many as Joanne or Brownie, passed away on April 9, 2024, at her home in Amityville, NY at the age of 83. She was born on October 1, 1940, in Florence, MS to Mr. and Mrs. O. C. Kitchens. Joan's educational journey started in Florence, MS, where she completed her schooling through high school. She later moved to New York to pursue higher education at Stony Brook, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Nursing. Her dedication to nursing led her to work at Long Island Jewish Hospital as a Registered Nurse, where she was initially the only Black nurse on staff. Over the years, more Black nurses joined her, and she continued her service at the hospital for several years. After her time at the hospital, Joan transitioned to a role as a Public Health Nurse with the Suffolk County Department of Health, where she dedicated over 20 years to serving the community. Her passion for nursing and helping others shone through in all aspects of her work. In her retirement years, Joan enjoyed various activities such as gardening, attending Broadway shows, going to church, cooking, and traveling. She was a dedicated member of the National Council of Negro Women and the Black Nurses Association for over 15 years. Additionally, she served on the Nurses Auxiliary board at Hollywood Baptist Church in Amityville, NY. Joan received numerous accolades for her contributions to the National Council of Negro Women, including organizing health fairs, women's health teaching, scholarships, and fundraising events. Her impact on the community and her dedication to her work will be remembered by many. Joan is survived by her son, Keith Catchings, daughter Kathy Mahabir, son-in-law Michael Mahabir, grandson Ryan, granddaughter Melanie, sisters Marie Morris and Ruby Walker, and brothers James Kitchens, Robert Kitchens (Bobbie), and Charles Kitchens (Wilma), along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Cynthia Joan Catchings leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered by her family, friends, and the community she served.

In Loving Memory of Cynthia Joan Catchings, AKA Joanne, Brownie: It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Cynthia Joan Catchings, also known as Joanne and Brownie, who peacefully transitioned on April 9, 2024, at her home in Amityville, NY at the age of 83. Joan was preceded in death by her lifelong partner of over 45 years, John Michael Perkins, her parents Mr. and Mrs. O. C. Kitchens, sisters Earnestine Catchings, Sharilyn Kitchens, and Macie Mouton, and her brother George, who passed away as an infant. A memorial service honoring Joan's life will be held at Powell Funeral Home in Amityville, NY on May 4, 2024, at 11 a.m. A viewing will take place at Westhaven on May 17, 2024, in Jackson, MS from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. The funeral service will be held on May 18, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Good Hope Baptist Church in Florence, MS, followed by burial at Good Hope Baptist Cemetery. The repast will be held at Good Hope Baptist Church to celebrate and remember Joan's life. To our beloved mother, you gave selflessly and provided love and guidance that will forever be cherished. Your presence was an eternal source of strength and support, and your memory will live on in our hearts. The impact you made on our lives is immeasurable, and we are forever grateful for the love and care you shared with us. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Powell Funeral Home, Westhaven Funeral Home, and Good Hope Baptist Church for their assistance during this difficult time. In our hearts, Joan's spirit will continue to shine brightly, and her legacy of compassion, dedication, and love will forever inspire us. May she rest in peace. With love and remembrance, Family and Friends of Cynthia Joan Catchings