Cathy Denise Taylor

Cathy Denise Taylor, 70, of Coatesville, passed away surrounded by her family on Friday, Feb. 3, 2023.

Born Feb. 22, 1952, in Greencastle, she was the daughter of Marion Eugene and Barbara (Judy) Smythe.

She was a graduate of South Putnam High School in the class of 1970, received her LPN license from Ivy Tech in 1981 and then her RN license from IUPUI in 1991.

Cathy was a free spirit who dedicated her life caring for others. Cathy worked several years as a nurse and after her retirement as a teacher in North Carolina. It was important to her to try and help others and make a difference in life.

Animals were her passion and love, taking in and rescuing strays to let them live a safe and happy life. They brought her peace, happiness, love and devotion, and she always felt you couldn’t ask for more.

She was preceded in death by her father; grandmother Merle Smythe (who helped raise her); a son, Adam Eugene Taylor; sisters Donna Berry and Linda Covert; grandsons Jesse and John Sellers; and nephew Kevin Nauman.

Cathy raised two strong, independent daughters and she was a wonderful mother, Omie and friend to many.

She is survived by her daughters Johninda “Johni” Taylor-Sellers and husband Sam and Malachi Vaughan and husband Eric; companion Michael Thackston; grandchildren Sevyn Sellers, Nakyhia Vaughan, Jacie Vaughan and Madilyn Vaughan; and her two spoiled dogs, Annie and Roxy.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hopkins-Rector Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Putnam County Animal Care, 4700 East S.R. 240, Greencastle, IN 46135.