Catherine Sue Woodward

Catherine Sue Woodward, 80, passed away on September 28, 2024, at the Rehab Center and Memory Care in Bristol, Virginia, where she had been living following a stroke in 2020.

Born on December 6, 1943, to George Emmett Glovier and Essie Mae McReynolds Glovier, Catherine spent her early years on the family farm in St. Paul, Virginia, where she developed a life-long love for horses. Her journey continued at Castlewood High School, where she met her first husband, Larry James Castle. During James’s service in the Air Force, the couple lived in various states before returning to Southwest Virginia, and they lived for a while in Bristol. 

After settling in Bristol, Catherine met her second husband, Hal Woodward. She assisted Hal with catering for Little Chef Deli. The couple enjoyed traveling, especially to Tennessee Vols games.

Catherine furthered her education at Virginia Intermont College and Virginia Highlands Community College. Her career was in banking, and she worked for many years at Highlands Union Bank in Abingdon, Virginia. Abingdon was the place Catherine would call her home. She loved the many restaurants, the Barter Theater, and the Highlands Festival.

She was a fiercely loyal fan to her friends and family, an avid reader, and enjoyed junking with her friends to discover elegant treasures to decorate their homes. But perhaps her greatest joy was entertaining on her café, where friends, neighbors, and family felt welcome to stop by any time, day or night, for a visit.

She is survived by her brother, Thomas Glovier; daughter, Beth Lovell; son-in-law, Ken Lovell; and grandsons, Sam and Ben Lovell. Those who knew her kind and generous spirit will love and miss her dearly.

In place of a formal service, please celebrate Catherine's life in a personal way that reflects her spirit.