Catherine Cusaac

Catherine Dorothy Mae Thomas Cusaac, was born in Effingham, South Carolina, on September 16, 1934, the only child of the late Gracie Mae Thomas and the late Rev. Paul Myers. Catherine attended Savannah Grove School. Catherine’s early childhood was filled with lovely memories of her living in her grandparents’ house, along with her cousins, Mamie, Carrie, Clemmie and Shorty. These ladies bonded at a very early age and considered themselves sisters throughout their lives. Fun family times were dinners, gatherings and celebrations for babies. Family gatherings were something that Catherine cherished, and her family continues with this generation’s old tradition. Some of Catherine’s childhood friends were Ophelia McDaniel, Mary Rems and Mildred Williams. She had a core crew of about eight women that kept in touch with each other over the years, regardless where they lived in the country. Catherine was twelve years old when she was saved and gave her life to Jesus Christ. She was a very active member of Savannah Grove Baptist Church. The Reverend H. Butler was her pastor. It was at Savannah Grove Baptist Church where she met and fell in love with Ocie Cusaac, Jr., who eventually became her husband of 20 years and the father of their six children: Robert, Willie, Edward, Anthony, Ocie III and Katrina. Ocie Jr. asked Catherine’s grandfather for her hand in marriage and they were married on July 10, 1954. Catherine and Ocie transitioned their family from South Carolina to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, finally settling at 4244 Wyalusing Avenue in West Philadelphia, which became Catherine’s home for 54 years. Catherine was very active in her community and church. Part of her community service was to allow voting booths in her home during local elections. She was a lifelong member of the Wyalusing Willing Workers and held positions of President and Treasurer over the years. Catherine also became a dedicated member of Pinn Memorial Baptist Church and later Millcreek Baptist Church, serving on the Missionary Committee, The Helping Hand’s Committee and the Accelerated Club and many others. Because of her strong religious beliefs, close community and family ties, Catherine welcomed all to her home with open arms and love. You could always count on Mama Que to be sitting on her porch with a smiling face, a listening ear and conversation for everyone that stopped by. Catherine worked various jobs, but her most important job was homemaker and mother, not only to her children but to a large extended family of friends and neighbors. She exemplified the characteristics of a true Christian- she showed love towards everyone she met, treating all with dignity and respect. She left a huge imprint on her children and grandchildren; regardless of what was going on in her own life, she always took time to listen to their concerns and offer life lessons. Catherine was a quiet, peaceful woman with a warm heart, rarely showing anger or rejection. Her strong presence in her community and our family will truly be missed. Catherine’s son, Edward Allen Cusaac and her grandson, Ryan Lee Cusaac preceded her in death. Catherine leaves to cherish her memory, one daughter, Katrina Grace (Anthony) Tillery, four sons, Robert Lee (Kimberly) Cusaac, Willie June (Yolanda) Cusaac, Anthony Leon ( Vanessa) Cusaac and Ocie Leon ( Roslyn) Cusaac; one step-daughter, Regina (Michael) Cusaac Hankins; one brother, Nicholas (Joan) Myers; four sisters-in-law, Helen McKeither, Oliva Willoughby, Gwendolyn Gibbs(Ernest) and Betty McDaniel; goddaughter, Regina Washington; extended families, the Williams family, the Washington family, the Snead family and the Lane family; 25 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.

Catherine Cusaac

September 16, 1934 - June 5, 2021