Catharine Ardelia Pratt-Marshall

On Thursday, February 19, 2026, in Adelphi, Maryland, Catharine Pratt Marshall, affectionately known as "Cat," was promoted to heaven. She was born on September 15, 1942, in Durham, North Carolina, to the late Emmett Cecil Pratt Sr. and Elizabeth “Bettye” Pratt. Catharine was preceded in death by her brother Emmett Cecil Pratt Jr.

Growing up in Durham, North Carolina, Catharine attended Durham County public schools and found the Lord at White Rock Baptist Church. Following her initial studies at North Carolina College, she completed her undergraduate degree at Howard University and obtained her master's degree in special education from George Washington University.

In 1965 she married the late John Walter Marshall Sr. of Washington, DC. From this union, John Walter Marshall Jr. was born, her “Baby Boy."

For 36 years, Catharine poured her heart into the DC public school system, transforming countless lives through her passion for empowering students to thrive.

After moving to Washington, DC, she continued her service to the Lord at New Bethel Baptist Church and later New Samaritan AME Church.

Catharine was also a long-term member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Alpha Chi chapter.

She leaves to cherish her memory are her devoted son, loving grandchildren, and countless loved ones. 

“Those who touch our lives stay in our hearts forever."

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