Catherine E. Thomas, longtime resident of Monroe, Conn., passed away peacefully on July 5, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. She was 82-years-old.
Born November 25, 1943, in Bridgeport, she was the beloved daughter of the late Frank and Ruth Van Wagner. She grew up in Fairfield and graduated from Andrew Warde High School.
Cathy found joy in life’s simple pleasures and in the time she shared with family and friends. She loved driving her red convertibles, building her extensive collection of mystery novels, traveling to auto races, and attending events at the Monroe Firehouse. She enjoyed sitting by her bay window, watching the birds, squirrels, and other wildlife that visited the yard.
She will be remembered for her kindness, warm sense of humor, delicious home cooking, irresistible desserts, and the summer picnics that brought family and friends together. Above all, Cathy treasured every moment with her grandchildren and took great pride in cheering them on at their sporting events.
Cathy is survived by her loving husband of 62 years, William “Bill” Thomas; her son, Bob Thomas (Carol); her daughter, Laura Smith (Ted); her grandchildren, Mitchell, Hunter, Alex, Zach and Ricky; as well as her sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, nieces, and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother, Gordon Van Wagner, and her sister, Frannie Van Wagner.
Friends are invited to calling hours on Monday, July 13, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Spadaccino & Leo P. Gallagher & Son Community Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe, CT 06468. Words of remembrance will be shared at 7:30 p.m.
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched. Online condolences may be left at SpadaccinoFuneralHome.com.
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