It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our dear mother, Cathy Tompkins, on 11/13/2024 at the age of 77 years. Lovingly known as the matriarch to her immediate and extended family, she was the heart and soul of her family.

Mom (Cathy) was born on 12/4/1946 in Bronx, NY to Catherine (Farrell) and Arthur Kersting alongside her siblings Al (Kersting/deceased), Loretta (Horan/surviving), and Artie (Kersting/surviving). After graduating from St. Pius V High school in 1964, she and Tom, the love of her life since age 13, officially united in marriage in 1965. The two moved to Sacramento, California with their first-born child, Lisa, when Tom was stationed at McClellan Air Force Base, where their second child, Christine was born. Cathy and Tom returned to New York in 1970 to pursue career opportunities, and had their third child, Barbara in 1971. The couple eventually settled in Connecticut (Trumbull) in 1977 raising their family until retiring to Florida in 1991.  Cathy attended Housatonic Community College and held a variety of administrative positions. The most impactful stage of her career was working at the Juvenile Detention Center (Fl.) where she carried out her passion of helping children negotiate the juvenile justice system.

Full of love, laughter, and incredible resilience, Mom touched the lives of all who knew her.  Quick witted and forthright by nature, Mom had a knack for leaving indelible imprints of her perspectives and opinions. She always enjoyed a fun game night, trip to the casino, and shopping. She had a unique gift for welcoming strangers and friends alike into the family. Her greatest joy was spending time with family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Cathy is survived by her three children: Lisa (Bob Gabriel), Christine (MD), and Barbara (Brian Klepper), five grandchildren: Nicole (Kristen Brady), Katelyn (Stephen Moore), Bobby (Sara Kissinger), Alexis, and Kayden; three great-grandchildren (Maya, Wyatt, and Nora), numerous nieces and nephews and her beloved puppy, Shelby. She is preceded in death by her husband, Tom (12/14/1944-10/4/2022); brother Al; and her parents Catherine and Arthur Kersting.

While deeply heartbroken by our loss, we find comfort and peace in knowing that Mom and Dad are reunited and will be laid to rest together forever.

A funeral is scheduled for 11/23/24, 12pm at Serenity Meadows Memorial Park and Funeral Home (6919 Providence Road, Riverview, Fl. 33578).  All are welcome to attend and celebrate Mom's life. A reception will take place following the burial at 201 Mossy River Court, Brandon Fl. 33511. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in memory of Cathy Tompkins to A Kid's Place of Tampa Bay located in Brandon, Fl. https://give.akidsplacetb.org/give/507634/#!/donation/checkout