Sunrise: March 19, 1942 - Sunset: April 18, 2026
OBITUARY OF CATHER CUSACK “CATHY” WILSON
Cather Cusack Wilson, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, business leader, and community pillar, was born on March 19, 1942, in Indiantown, Florida, to George Waymon Cusack, Sr. and Georgia Mae Cusack and transitioned on April 18, 2026. She was lovingly raised by her stepmother, Mamie L. Cusack, and spent her formative years in Bunnell, Florida, where she graduated from Carver High School.
On August 24, 1962, she married the love of her life, Roosevelt Wilson, in Bunnell, Florida. Their union was one of enduring love, partnership, and purpose, spanning 56 years of shared accomplishments and family devotion before his passing in 2018.
A lifelong advocate for education and personal growth, Cathy began her collegiate journey at Daytona Beach Community College, where she earned her Associate of Arts degree. She later transferred to Florida A&M University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Criminology, and continued her academic pursuit by obtaining her Master’s degree from Florida A&M as well. Her professional career began at Gayfers Department Store, where she worked in the security department. Through diligence, leadership, and keen insight, she rose to become Manager of Security and Loss Prevention. Beyond her corporate career, Cathy was a highly sought-after wedding coordinator in Tallahassee, known for her attention to detail and ability to orchestrate memorable celebrations and community events.
In 1991, Cathy played a pivotal role alongside her husband in the purchase of the Capital Outlook newspaper. Serving as Director of Business Operations until the paper’s sale in 2009, she was instrumental in sustaining and growing the publication. While her husband earned widespread recognition for his writing, it was Cathy’s business acumen and steady leadership that helped guide the company through challenging economic times. Her efforts were directly responsible for the Capital Outlook being recognized as Small Business of the Year by Leon County.
Cathy was initiated into the Tallahassee Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., on April 12, 1992 along with her loving line sisters, “Sagacious Seventeen.” She served on several committees and remained active until her passing. She was deeply engaged in her community and maintained active membership in several organizations, including the FAMU Tight Ends (coaches and staff wives), Rattler Boosters, and Red Hatters. She was actively involved in theater at both the FAMU Essential Theater and the Tallahassee Little Theater. She also coordinated the Miss Black Florida beauty pageant for some time.
Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was a devoted member of First Institutional Missionary Baptist Church, where she worshipped under the leadership of the late Reverend C.C. Cunningham and remained a faithful member under Reverend Kent Carroll until her passing. She also lent her voice in praise as a longtime member of the FIMBC choir.
Cathy leaves behind a legacy of strength, grace, leadership, and unwavering commitment to family, faith, and community. Her life’s work and love will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.
Cathy was the proud mother of three children: Van (Cheria), Vaughn (Thais), and Dr. Tiffany (Rick). She was a cherished grandmother to six grandchildren: Olivia Wilson, Van Wilson II., Tiffany Dixon, Laila Wilson, Zachary Wilson, and Tori Ardley, each of whom brought immense joy to her life.
ORDER OF SERVICE
Bishop Quincy D. Griffin Sr., Presiding Senior Pastor, Family Worship & Praise Center
Processional……………………………………….……………….…….…….Clergy
Scripture
Selection………………………………………………….…………..………Anthony
In lieu of flowers, the family would like to solicit donation to one of her favorite organizations, the Eddie Jackson 220 Quarterback Club. TO donate, scan the QR code to the right, or click the following link:
CLICK TO DONATE
HONORARY PALLBEARERS
Rick Ardley • Carey Brown • Joe Bullard • Bill Proctor
Curtis Richardson • Thornton Williams
ACTIVE PALLBEARERS
Charles “Chuck” Hobbs • Darryl Jones • Nick Maddox
Jerome Swaine • Van Wilson II • Zachary Wilson
FLORAL ATTENDANTS
Tallahassee Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Segacious Seventeen - Spring, 1992 TAC
Beta Alpha Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc
THE SERVICE OF COMMITTAL
Tallahassee Memory Gardens
4037 N. Monroe Street • Tallahassee, FL 32303
THE REPAST
Old West Enrichment Center
2344 Lake Bradford Road • Tallahassee, FL 32301
Thanks to Elevate Church for supporting the Repast
Floral Spray Courtesy of former FAMU Football Players
FAMILY ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Friends and family, please know that words cannot adequately express our sincere appreciation for your unconditional love and support of our beloved mom/granny, “Cathy”. Your texts, calls, visits, cards, food, and donations were loving ways to show care, and for those acts of kindness, we will be eternally grateful. You allowed God to use you as His vessels on earth during one of the most difficult times in our lives and we appreciate your obedience to His Will. We also express appreciation to the administration at Azalea Gardens, especially Amanda Watson, Heather Frost, Jerry Brown, Toni Jackson, Mack Williams, Ashanti, Tierra, Reiva, Keke, Amanda B., and all of the dedicated and attentive staff for the competent care shown to mom during her time there. We thank Big Bend Hospice for their unwavering support during mom’s time of transition. Lastly, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Bishop Quincy Griffin and the Family Worship and Praise Center Leadership and Usher Ministry for their assistance and support during our time of bereavement.
