OBITUARY
Catherine Abell Ford, 63, of San Angelo, passed away peacefully in her family home after a long courageous battle with Cancer.
Born on April 10, 1962 in San Angelo, TX to Wilma Jean Wells and Donald Monroe Abell. She was the first born “Abell” grandchild and the oldest of 3 girls.
Cathy, as she was lovingly known, attended San Angelo Central High School where she created cherished memories as a member of Pheta TRY-Hi-Y & the National Honor Society graduating in 1980.
She continued her educational journey at Angelo State University, excelling academically and consistently earning a spot on the Dean’s list before graduating in 1985 with a Degree In Business Administration. Cathy was married briefly to Robert Ford in 1989.
She began her professional career at Hirschfeld Steel Industries as a “Temp” in the Accounting Department. Her ambition and exceptional attention to detail quickly earned her recognition, leading to her promotion as the Administrative Assistant to the Vice President of Hirschfeld Steel. Driven by her passion for excellence, she pursued her Nuclear Certification and transitioned into a role in Nuclear Quality Control.
Throughout her 30 years at Hirschfeld Steel, which later became WWWAFCO, Cathy demonstrated unwavering commitment and leadership.
She rose through the ranks to become the Quality Assurance Administrator and then the Assistant Director of Transportation Management. Even in her final days, Cathy continued to be devoted to her work, taking calls and ensuring every detail was attended to.
Cathy was an inspiration to her colleagues who admired her ability to show up with a smile, even amidst the pain she endured. She embodied resilience, never hesitating to face challenges head on.
In a playful twist, when the company created a Men’s Only Fantasy Football League, Cathy, a Lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan surprised everyone. Little did they know, she knew more football stats than most men! She entered under an alias and won. The following year she entered under her own name, proving that she was never to be underestimated in a male dominated arena.
Forging many lifelong friendships during her 30 years, Cathy’s legacy is one of strength, inspiration, and determination. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege knowing her.
Cathy enjoyed spending time with her family and traveling both throughout the country and in Europe. Her goal was to visit all 50 states, and she was just five states short of reaching that dream.
A master of photography, she loved capturing beautiful moments everywhere she went. Cathy cherished her trips to North Carolina, where she delighted in the changing seasons & stunning waterfalls. However, her favorite place was a sandy beach covered in seashells at Sunset.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Cathy was a beloved member of the San Angelo community. She took immense pride in her role as the Fiesta Del Concho Ambassador Chairman and a Member of the Junior League of San Angelo. She was proud to be named Outstanding Junior League Member which was very well deserved.A loving daughter, grandmother, sister, aunt, niece and friend.
She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Lorene & John Haskin Wells; her paternal grandparents; Lucille and Warren Abell.
She leaves behind her parents, Don & Jean Abell of San Angelo, TX.; sisters Jennifer and Jim Morgan of Richardson, TX; Beverly and Matthew Schilling of Watts, OK; her nieces Bren Schilling and Emily Morgan both of Fayetteville, AR; and nephew Matthew “Schill” Schilling.
Her step-children and grandchildren, Ashleigh and Christian Rusk, Hermione and Blair of Fort Worth, TX; Seth and Rebecca Blair, Aiden, Abigail and Jameson of Houston, TX; Devin Blair, Addisyn Blair of San Angelo, TX. Other family members remaining to cherish her memory are numerous extended family and close friends, along with her beloved Boston Terrier, Bella.
A memorial may be made to Rust Street Ministries; a community outreach of the Johnson Street Church of Christ in San Angelo. She grew up in this Church, baptized at Camp Victory, and lately looked forward to her Monday calls from staff members checking in on her.
-From Harper Funeral Home
