Cathy Lenora Thayer Welborn, beloved mother, sister, and aunt, passed away on July 20, 2026 at Westchester Manor in High Point, NC.  Cathy left behind a legacy of strength, resilience, and a spirit that embraced both rebellion and warmth. Born on March 2, 1948, she came of age during a time when traditional roles defined women's lives. At 19, she became a wife and mother, stepping into the expectations of the late 1960s. Yet, inspired by the winds of change brought by the women’s liberation movement, Cathy chose to forge her own path. In 1972, Cathy bravely embraced life as a single mother, breaking free from convention during an era of social upheaval and feminist awakening. She navigated workplace challenges with hard work and determination, holding numerous jobs—from roofer to medical transcriptionist—while providing for her daughter with unwavering dedication.

She moved to Alabama in the late 1970s to further her education at Gadsden State Community College Ayers Campus (formerly Harry M. Ayers Technical College), where she studied business administration. During this time, she developed a deep connection with her mother’s family and strengthened bonds with her relatives in North Carolina that lasted a lifetime. Later, Cathy found peace on the family property in Randolph County and remarried. She nurtured her love for nature and animals by creating an animal sanctuary that reflected her deep connection to the earth. Though she embraced a quieter, more grounded life, her rebellious spirit and generous heart never faded.

Family and friendship were always central to Cathy’s life, and she welcomed everyone with warmth and kindness. Cathy found joy in nature, music, dance, laughter, and community—whether with lifelong friends or her new companions at Westchester Manor, where she spent her final years. 

Cathy is survived by her cherished daughter and daughter-in-law, Cheryl Small and Lisa Gagnon of Greensboro, NC; her beloved and loyal sister-in-law, Pam Thayer; her beloved niece, Becky Thayer of Thomasville, NC; and her former husband and his wife—best friends and companions—Max Welborn and Darlene Welborn of Randolph County.

Cathy was preceded in death by her mother, Ann Lenora Canter Thayer; her father, Charles Lawrence Thayer; and her brothers, William Gregory Thayer and Charles Timothy Thayer. 

Cathy’s family would like to extend special thanks to Josephine Littlejohn, Karen, Nikki, Maggie, Ada, Michael, Ruth, Billie, Dawn, Queen, and the Ericas, as well as Hollie from Hospice of the Triad, for providing Cathy with compassionate and attentive care during her stay at Westchester Manor.

A memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, August 8,  2026 at Mt. Zion Methodist Church, 2354 Finch Farm Rd., Trinity, NC 27370, with Reverend La Tonye Torain, and Pastor Tim Webster presiding. A luncheon celebrating Cathy’s life will follow immediately after the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice of the Piedmont would be greatly appreciated.