Obituary of Catherine Fleming

Catherine Fleming, known to most of us as simply "Kay,” was born on January 25, 1940, in Lenox Hill, New York City. Kay lived a life of love, faith, and devotion to family. She grew up on 96th Street, surrounded by her three siblings, George, and twins May and Neal, and was shaped by the incredible strength of her mother, Catherine, who raised them after the untimely passing of Kay’s father when she was just six years old.

Kay’s early life was defined by perseverance and love, a foundation that would carry her through the years to come. After graduating high school, Kay began working as a secretary in the city, a role that showcased her determination and work ethic. But it was on a spring evening in 1958, when Kay attended a dance with her best friend, Anna Feeney, that her life would change forever. That night, she met Robert, the man with whom she would spend the rest of her life.

Robert (Bob)and Kay were married on June 9, 1961, embarking on a lifelong journey that would be blessed with six beautiful children: Robert (Bobby), Ann Marie (Ann), Steven, Eileen, James (Jimmy), and Thomas (Tommy). Together, they built a home filled with laughter, love, and the joy of family. They raised their children in Williston Park, New York, where Kay and Bob became devoted members of St. Aidan’s Church, a spiritual home they cherished for over 60 years.

Kay’s heart was expansive. She was, and will always be, a loving mother and wife—a woman whose laughter and care touched everyone who knew her. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her own children, as she dedicated herself to teaching Catholic education in her home, passing on her faith and values to future generations. Her love for children was boundless, and this love deepened with the arrival of her nine grandchildren: Lauren, Daniel (Danny), Jeremy, Kevin, Aislinn, Taylor, Andrew, Ryan, and Connor.

Kay’s warmth and generosity extended to her extended family as well, embracing her in-laws—Eric, Barbara-Anne, Justin, Jennifer, and Wendy—as her own. She welcomed George and Courtney, the spouses of two of her grandchildren, into the family with open arms. Family was everything to Kay, and she loved each of them fiercely and without reservation.

In her free time, Kay found joy in the little things that brought her peace. She loved to read and was known to check out four or more books at a time from the Shelter Rock Library. She had a passion for cooking, though baking—except for her gingerbread men at Christmastime—wasn’t exactly her favorite. Kay’s creativity knew no bounds; she loved making crafts and always added a personal, artistic touch to the gifts and wreaths she gave to others.

Kay’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and faith. She touched so many lives with her kindness and her ability to make everyone feel special and cared for. As we remember Kay, we are reminded of the many lives she shaped, the joy she brought, and the legacy she leaves behind in her children, grandchildren, and all those who were lucky enough to know her.

Though Kay has left this world, her spirit remains with us—in the laughter she shared, the love she gave, and the memories we will cherish forever. We will miss her deeply, but we take comfort in knowing that her legacy of love and kindness will live on in all of us.

Rest in peace, Kay. You will always be in our hearts, until we see you again.