Cathy Cates

Cathy Ann (Opell) Cates, 74 of Fairfield passed away Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at Linda E. White Hospice House in Evansville, IN. Cathy was born February 11, 1952, in Vincennes, IN to Harlan and Lois ( Cochran) Opell. Cathy spent most of her childhood in Vincennes, IN before her family moved to Fairfield where she later graduated from FCHS in 1970. On March 9, 1979, she married Vernon Cates, the love of her life. Together, they built a life filled with love and the comfort of having one another by their side. She cherished family gatherings and holidays, surrounded by people she loved most. Her greatest pride and joy were her precious grandbabies. Nothing brought her more happiness than spending time with them.

Cathy is survived by her husband Vernon Cates, son Rennie (Amanda) Cates of Fairfield, daughter Crystal (Tommy) Richardson of Mt. Vernon, IL, 3 grandchildren- Jasmine Waldrop, Bryce Waldrop, and Aiden Cates, 3 great grandchildren- Brooklyn, Grayson, and Jaxon, sister Brenda (Eddie) King of Fairfield, brothers Rick Opell and Denny (Georgia) Opell of Fairfield, and several cousins and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Harlan and Lois Opell, brother Brent Opell, and granddaughter Hailey Dawn Waldrop.

Graveside services will be held at 12 PM, Monday, November 2nd at Cumberland Chapel Cemetery. Memorials in her honor can be made to help with funeral expenses and will be accepted at the service or the Johnson and Vaughn Funeral Home.