We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Catherlin E. Mitchell, a beloved mother, sister, and friend, who departed this world peacefully on February 22, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on October 24, 1937, in Piedmont, Alabama, to the union of Charlie Green and Linnie Bee (Wright) Green, Catherlin spent her life making a difference in the lives of others and will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Catherlin dedicated her life to caring for others as a nurse’s aide in long-term care industry, where she worked with compassion and commitment at Beeghley Oaks Nursing Home, as well as at Windsor and Little Forest facilities. Her warm spirit and nurturing nature made her not just a caregiver, but a cherished member of her community.
To all who had the honor of knowing her, Catherlin was more than just a caregiver; she was a beacon of kindness, an immaculate homemaker, and a loving foster mother to many. A former Order of the Eastern Star, she had a love for gardening and flowers, always taking the time to help others, and enjoyed the simple pleasures of life which included visiting the casino and singing praises to the Lord.
A woman of many passions, Catherlin found joy in cooking for her family which was her love language. She delighted everyone with her amazing culinary skills. She enjoyed making her famed macaroni and cheese for her grandson.
A devoted member of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church until her illness, Catherlin’s faith guided her every step. Blessed with an amazing ability to sing, her signature hymn was Amazing Grace. Catherlin amassed an impressive collection of angels.
As Catherlin’s health began to decline, her loving family accepted the opportunity to provide care to her just as she had done for others. She is survived by her daughter, Esther Tharpe, and her husband, Phillip Tharpe, with whom she shared a beautiful bond. Catherlin was “Gaga” to her cherished grandson, Phillip “PJ” Tharpe Jr., and leaves behind a loving sister, Jeanine Watson, and her husband, Duane, whom she lovingly reared.
Catherlin's legacy extends to her niece, Roz Lee, and many other nieces who will carry her spirit forward. She held a special place in her heart for her family in Toledo, including her dear cousin, Pat Dean. Catherlin also cherished her beloved canine companion, Serena.
Catherlin is preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Charles Green, Christine Donaldson, and James Bishop, and now reunites with them in the embrace of eternal peace. Reflecting on her life, we carry with us the confidence in the words, “to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.”
On Friday, February 27, 2026, the life and legacy of Catherlin will be honored at noon with public viewing and family visitation in the chapel of the J.E. Washington Funeral Home, 2234 Glenwood Ave., Youngstown. The Celebration of Life services will be held at 1:00 PM with Rev. Lewis Macklin as officiant. After the committal ceremony, Catherlin will be laid to rest at the serene meadows of Tod Homestead Cemetery.
At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Catherlin E. Mitchell elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.