I'm Melissa Ray, Cathy's niece.  I only met Cathy a few times at family reunions when I was growing up.  I always thought she seemed very exotic and I was a little intimidated.  Then, when I was in high school, Cathy and another aunt (Edwina) came to visit us in Shreveport, LA.  I called her "Aunt Cathy".  With a very serious expression, and a twinkle in her eye, she looked me at me and said, "Now, Melissa.  I can tell that you and I are going to get along just fine.  But lose the 'aunt'."  I thought she was about the coolest adult I'd ever met.

I saw her a number of times between then and now.  I treasure each visit.  Most recently, I've come with my son, Griffith (now 4).  Griffith, usually a cautious child around people he doesn't know well, went right up to Cathy from the first, seemingly fascinated by her.  I know how he felt.

She will be missed.