Mary Cathryn Kotjarapoglus

Mary Cathryn Kotjarapoglus March 13, 1939 – May 5, 2026 Mary Cathryn “Cathy” Kotjarapoglus, 87, of Gainesville, Virginia, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on May 5, 2026. She was born in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, on March 13, 1939, to Joseph Curry and Mary Walls. She spent most of her life in Pennsylvania, including the cities of Greensburg, Boiling Springs, and Hidden Valley. Cathy was preceded in death by her loving husband, Theo, with whom she shared a beautiful life and 61 incredible years of marriage together. True soulmates, they navigated life’s joys and challenges side by side, and their special bond was a shining example of enduring love. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, and treasured friend who was adored by all who knew her. Cathy enthusiastically attended many of her grandchildren’s sporting events and was always one of their biggest fans. She had many special gifts, including a talent for decorating. Cathy had a remarkable touch for making everything beautiful, especially her homes and gardens. She was well known for having the most spectacular Christmas trees and holiday decorations in the neighborhood. Cathy loved shopping and was admired for her colorful style and sparkling accessories, always looking polished and well put together. She frequently showed her love through cooking, effortlessly preparing delicious meals for family and friends alike. Her grandchildren especially loved her homemade apple pies and applesauce. She was one of the kindest, most generous, and thoughtful souls, always willing to help anyone in need. Cathy graduated from Seton Hill College with a degree in education and later earned her master’s degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Her career reflected her passion for helping others. She taught elementary school, where her young students fondly called her “Mrs. Chocolate Octopus” rather than attempting to pronounce her long last name. Cathy also worked at Head Start, directed the lifelong learning center at Westmoreland Community College, and served as a Senior Project Director at AARP. She gave back to her community through volunteer work with multiple organizations, including the American Heart Association and local Greek churches. Cathy was also a proud member of the Red Hat Society. She is survived by her two daughters, Kimberly Coll and her husband, Tom, of Gainesville, Virginia, and Christine Hudnall and her husband, David, of Clifton, Virginia; her grandchildren, Amanda Coll, Ryan Coll and his fiancée, Taylor Hentgen, Grant Hudnall; her great-granddaughter, Camryn Coll; several nieces and nephews; and her beloved dog, Peaches. Cathy was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Mary Curry; her sister, Patricia Sabec; and her brothers, Joseph Curry and James Curry. A viewing will be held on Monday, May 18, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at St. Katharine Drexel Mission Catholic Church, 15000 Waterfall Road, Haymarket, Virginia, followed by a Mass from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. To honor Cathy’s wishes and vibrant spirit, colorful attire is encouraged. Entombment will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Stonewall Memory Gardens, 12004 Lee Highway, Manassas, Virginia 20109. Expressions of sympathy may be made in the form of flowers or contributions to the Arthritis Foundation or the American Stroke Association.

Mary Cathryn Kotjarapoglus

March 13, 1939 - May 5, 2026