Catherine (Knox) Beam
Obituary
Catherine Knox Beam died on July 19, 2023. She was 95 years old. She died from aplastic anemia and vascular dementia.
Catherine was born on the Knox Farm, Rowan County, in the homeplace. Her family demonstrated to each other fun, care and devotion. The homeplace and all its memories created such a good life for her.
Catherine was a graduate of Catawba College. She taught 35 years in Mt. Holly, Rockingham and Rutherford County. She taught high school English throughout her career. She directed the annual Sophomore talent show at RS Central until retirement in 1988.
An active member of Delta Kappa Gamma, DAR and later the Rutherfordton Garden Club, Meals on Wheels and a church volunteer. A lifelong member of the Presbyterian Church, active in Women’s Circles and bible study groups. Catherine participated daily in devotional study and avid reading. She was a cross word enthusiast.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Max Gantt Beam. They were married 60 years. Also, a daughter, Anna Catherine, precedes her in death.
Catherine was the 7th of 8 children by Robert Howard and Mary Emma Sloop Knox. She was preceded in death by her siblings: Jim, Bob, Wylie, Mary Emma, Allen, Lois and David Knox.
She is survived by Mike Beam, Lucretia (David) Ellis and grandson John Ellis. Catherine loved being his grandmother.
Our family wishes to thank specifically Jody Wilkins for her years of dedication to the health and wellbeing of Catherine and Mike.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00AM Friday July 28, 2023, at Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church with Reverend Dr. Don Scofield officiating. There will be a meal provided in the fellowship hall after the service.
In lieu of flowers: Norris Public Library of Rutherfordton, Rutherfordton Presbyterian Church , Alzheimer’s Association NC, Hospice of Cleveland County. McMahan’s Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.
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