Catherine Murphy Flanagan

Asheville - Catherine Flanagan, 90, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2009, her memories faded, her body weakened, but her spirit strong. Even in the worst of days, she would turn an attentive ear and muster her trademark grin. Born March 18, 1918, in New Bern, N.C. to Byas Claude and Lena Belle Lamb, hers was a life filled with all the marvels of the 20th Century. She moved to Asheville where she eventually met her first husband, William J. Murphy, Sr., with whom she shared the uniqueness of having the same birth date and year. Upon his death in 1963, she managed the W.J. Murphy Company (an Asheville manufacturing company) and a gift shop in Six Gun Territory amusement park in Silver Springs, Florida. This was one occasion of many when she exhibited the grit and determination that marked all of her endeavors. In 1967, she married Everett L. Flanagan and soon thereafter began a much-deserved retirement. Days now could be filled with her varied hobbies and interests – crocheting, quilting, sewing, puzzle books, and gardening. Kitty was predeceased by Everett and her brothers Robert and Garlie Lamb, twin-brother Carlton, and her only sister and best lifelong friend, Ruth L. Reusing. She is survived by her entire immediate family: Anne Maier (Bob), Joan Rawls (Tom), William J. Murphy, Jr. (Mardy), and Bobbie Whitener (Pat). Grandchildren Robbie, Tammy, Christie, Jennifer, Melissa, and Stephanie were the joys of her life, as were her five great grandchildren. A service will be held at 12 noon on Tuesday in the chapel of Groce Funeral Home on Patton Avenue with a private interment following. The family will receive friends prior to the service, beginning at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers, please offer contributions to CarePartners Hospice, PO Box 25338, Asheville, NC 28813.