Cathy Diane Leahy (64) of Newton

Visitation from 1-4 p.m. and memorial services celebrating Cathy’s life to immediately follow Sunday, April 10 at the Crain Funeral Home in Newton with Pastor Chris Parr officiating. The family requests casual attire for the services. Cremation rites will be accorded, with interment services to be held at a later date. Memorial gifts may be made to the Blessings in a Backpack due to Cathy's love of cooking. Online condolences may be left by clicking here.

Cathy was born September 30, 1957 in Mattoon, Illinois the daughter of Rex Eugene and Evelyn Joan (Russell) Walker. Cathy was a graduate of Newton Community High School, Class of 1975.  On August 29, 1981, Cathy married the love of her life, Paul "Preach" Leahy.  During her high school years, Cathy worked at Cunningham’s Tastee Freeze, where she used her wonderful cooking skills as a lead cook. Following high school, she worked as a seamstress at E. R. Moore for 18 years. She later devoted her time to her family as a stay-at-home mother and homemaker. She enjoyed attending her children’s sporting events and school activities. As an avid reader, Cathy shared her love of reading with her children. In later years, she served as hostess for Frank and Diane Ayres at the Old Mill Inn. Cathy enjoyed relaxing and camping with family and friends. They were devoted Jimmy Buffet fans and proud members of the Parrotheads Club. 

Cathy will be loved and remembered by her husband of 40 years Paul E. Leahy of Newton; children Megan N. Leahy and husband Edward Rader and Philip E. Leahy and wife Vinna; mother, Joan Walker; brothers-in-law, James Leahy, wife Brigit, Timothy Menke, Dennis Menkepand Duane Menke; sister-in-law, Dorothy Leahy; several nieces and nephews.

Her father Rex, brother Dave Walker, mother-in-law Mary Lou Menke, brothers-in-law Charles Leahy and Thomas Menke preceded her in death.