Catherine "Cathy" Lewis

Catherine Grace “Cathy” Lewis, age 73, passed peacefully on December 27, 2024, surrounded by close family. Born on July 15th, 1951, the second eldest of seven children to John and Ruth Caullay, Cathy grew up on Detroit’s east side and was a graduate of Detroit Denby High School. Cathy married the love of her life, Gary D. Lewis. They were married for 51 wonderful years and had been sweethearts since they were 15 years old. Cathy and Gary grew up together. They were each other’s best friends and “rocks” in life. She was devotedly cared for single-handedly by her love, Gary, who was with her until the very end. Over the course of her life, Cathy was a neonatal nurse’s aide, a visual artist, an entrepreneur, an art and antique collector, everyone’s biggest cheerleader and a stay-at-home parent, a role she approached with great thought, intention, and pride. She had impeccable style and carried herself with grace. Cathy loved music, history and vintage fashion. She was a podcast enthusiast and was fantastic at trivia - she truly was the “queen” of random facts. Cathy was an amazing wife, mom, sister, grandmother / nana, mentor, and friend. The proud mom of three - now adult - children, Cathy was also an unofficial “mom” to many of her family members and friends. She had a way with words and made sure that others felt heard, seen, and supported. Cathy saw so much potential in others and helped to make sure that they saw that potential in themselves. She was an incredible human being and encouraged and inspired others to become the best versions of themselves as well. Cathy stared down all of life’s challenges with unmatched and remarkable strength and resilience. Despite her health challenges, Cathy never wanted to be defined by them and didn’t want to be a burden to others. Instead, she was best known for her unshakeable character. She was fiercely loyal, had an unwavering moral compass and a strong sense of integrity. She charted her own path in life, trusted her gut instincts, and never worried about the judgment of others. Cathy was the most determined person you could ever meet. She gave all of herself to those she loved, especially her family, and was everyone’s biggest advocate, defender, and wisest counsel. She never lost her positive outlook and was known for her quick-witted sense of humor. Cathy’s legacy will live on through the many lives she touched. We know that she will be forever in our hearts. Cathy is survived by her husband, Gary D. Lewis; her children, Gary N. Lewis (Laura), Ryan (Sarah) Lewis and Maria (Juanita) Lewis; her grandchildren; her siblings, John Caullay, Kevin (Bernadette) Caullay, Ruth (Dave) Barrie and Ian (Danielle) Caullay; and much extended family and many dear friends who join her family in mourning her passing. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Susie Velthuysen and Julie Trump; brother-in-law, Charles R. Lewis; and her father- and mother-in-law, Charles B. and Madeline Lewis. Visitation 10am Thursday, January 2nd until the 12 noon Funeral Service at Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons. 54880 Van Dyke Ave (Shelby Twp.) at 25 Mile Rd. Share memories with the family at their "On-Line Guestbook" @ WujekCalcaterra.com In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to National Public Radio (NPR) or Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), Cathy’s favorite sources for her daily podcasts.

Catherine "Cathy" Lewis

July 15, 1951 - December 27, 2024