Catherine Johnson Fitzgerald was born to Adam and Viola Johnson in South Carolina on March 13, 1932. She was raised in Mt. Zion, NC, with her sisters Marie, Bertie Mae, Betty and brother Adam Jr. Catherine attended Dudley High School, Greensboro NC. She married John L. Fitzgerald and had 2 sons, John Sigmund (Siggie) and Larry Conrad. Catherine was a career homemaker and did domestic work including childcare for 40 plus years and was an extended member of Bill and Mary Anton’s family, the owners of the legendary Cellar Anton’s. Catherine really loved Reid Memorial CME Church and was a member for over 50 years. She sang in Reid’s choir for many years and in her early years she sang with the Voices of Calvary Gospel group. Big Mama, as she was fondly called, never missed a chance to have plenty of fun while cooking for those she held dear. Family and friends alike will remember her infectious laugh, the big cookouts, and delicious desserts, holiday dinners, and family reunions! She was a sharp dresser and always kept up with the latest trends. Cat loved decorating her home inside and out!! She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and sisters Marie and Bertie Mae. Catherine is survived by her children Siggie and Larry Fitzgerald; sister Betty Rankin and brother Adam Johnson Jr.; and daughters in law Cynthia McAdoo and Angela Fitzgerald; grandchildren Javon Fitzgerald, Jarred Fitzgerald and Lauren Fitzgerald; granddaughter in-law Coetina Edwards; great grandchildren India and Jordan Fitzgerald; and a host of nieces and nephews. Extended families include the Johnson, Rankin, Brunson, Wilson, Anton, Troxler, Heath, Massey and Cunningham families.

A funeral service will be held Friday, January 24, 2025, at Reid Memorial CME Church located at 1010 Bennett Street in Greensboro, NC 27406 at 1:00pm. Family visitation will be from 12:30-1:00pm. The Fitzgerald family has entrusted the funeral services to Allen and Associates Mortuary Cremation, LLC.