Catherine L. Cephas

Catherine Louise Jones Cephas born June 3, 1935 transitioned from this life and

went to glory on Feb 17, 2024. Affectionately called “Sister” by the family,

Catherine was the oldest daughter of the late Rev. Fredrick Glenwood Jones and

Hattie Jane Jones of Fruitland, MD.

Catherine was a graduate of Salisbury High School and Bowie State University

formerly Bowie State Teachers College. Catherine was an avid sports woman

participating in basketball, field hockey and soft ball while attending school. She

was an avid bowler and enjoyed watching all sports on television.

Catherine began her teaching career in Grasonville, MD at South County

Elementary school. She married Alan R. Cephas in 1957 and moved to Delaware.

Catherine was employed by the De La Warr School District and taught elementary

education at Dunleith and Rose Hill Elementary schools. With desegregation she

was employed by the Colonial School district and taught at Colwyck Elementary

school. As an educator Catherine was highly respected by her peers and had a

strong work ethic. Among her students she was viewed as being hard and a

teacher that didn’t take any foolishness. Any student that went through her

classroom learned and went on to achieve their goals in life. She impacted many

lives and have many who affectionately call her mom. She retired in 1997 after a

41-year teaching career.

Catherine developed a close relationship with God at an early age. She would be

the first one in church with her father as she played piano for the service. Later in

life she would accompany her father and mother as he visited churches to fulfill

his Presiding Elder duties. She enjoyed church and later in life was saddened that

she could not attend on a more regular basis.

Catherine was a long time and active member of Bethel AME church Wilmington,

DE. She served on several committees, was a member and head of the steward

board and a long-time member of the Sanctuary Choir serving as secretary and

section leader. She also was known for her cooking skills and served on the

hospitality committee.

Catherine always had a kind word and smile for everyone. She was an avid bowler

and gardener. She looked forward to spring every year so that she could plant her

flower garden.

Catherine was preceded in death by her loving husband of 63 years, Alan R.

Cephas Sr, her father Presiding Elder Fredrick G. Jones Sr, mother Hattie Graham

Jones, Brothers Rev. Fredrick Jones Jr., Harold Jones Sr., Sisters Florence Jones

Brown, Ina Jones Upshur and Frances Jones Tolliver.

Catherine is survived by her daughter Nina D. Cephas, her son Alan R. Cephas II

(Andrea), adopted daughter Joanne Green, 4 grandchildren, 7 great

grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and much loved in law. She

was adoptive mother to many who called her mom “C”.

Lovingly Submitted, The Family