Catherine Genevieve Gray was born on September 20, 1920 to the late George M. and Mary Gray in Marbury, MD.

Upon graduating from Pomonkey High School, Kate worked as a store clerk and domestic to attain the purchase of her home in Indian Head, MD where she lived for 25+ years prior to moving to Alexandria and then South Riding, Virginia for the last 15 years. She was a selfless woman and forever put her family first, filled with unconditional love and unbreakable strength, an exceptional quality that made those who met her for the first time, have an instant connection. As she was affectionately called "Mama Kate" not only by her four children but also by her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews who she compassionately cared for and positively influenced.

She enjoyed listening to gospel, calypso, and country music; was a great dancer, especially doing the "Charleston", enjoyed watching major league baseball and treasured her picture taken with Willy Mays; sewing quilts, cooking, and was an avid game show watcher. She had a keen memory and made it a point to acknowledge loved ones birthdays. Kate was a devout Catholic with an unwavering faith in God and read the scriptures and prayed the rosary every day.

Kate is survived by her four loving children Judy, Faye, Denise, and Brad; six grandchildren, Leslie, Christopher Jr., Lisa (deceased), Curtis, Andrea, and Keith; eight great-grandchildren; Ariana, Kayla, Lauren, Maia, Christopher, III, Conlin, Keith, Jr., Jorgiana; two sons in-law Barron Brown, Sr., Tyron Eagle, one Daughter-in-law Charlotte Gray; four sisters; Regina, Ruth, Adelaide, and Virginia; five brothers Thomas, George, James, Raymond, and Charles, (deceased) two brothers-in-law Richard Washington (recently deceased), Charles Datcher; along with a host relatives and friends.

It was truly a blessing to have such a rare jewel as our mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Mama Kate, your mark on this earth after 89 years is a shining gift to us all. You will never be forgotten!

Her viewing will be held on Friday, February 5, 2010, 9:30am until Mass of Christian Burial 11:00am at St. Mary Star of the Sea Church, 30 Mattingly Avenue, Indian Head, MD. Interment St. Charles Cemetery, Glymont, MD.

Arrangements entrusted to Thornton Funeral Home, PA., 3439 Livingston Road, Indian Head, MD 20640.