Catherine B. Dougherty-Baldwin

Catherine Bridget Dougherty Baldwin was born in August of 1959 in Wilmington, DE and sadly passed away on March 24, 2025 in her hometown of Bellefonte, DE. Catherine was fondly known as Cathy, a devoted mother, a beloved Nana, a supportive friend, a Mount Pleasant High School alumna, and a Bellefonte babe.

Cathy was a woman of remarkable strength and resilience, who faced life’s challenges with an unwavering spirit and a sharp-witted sense of humor. Cathy was charismatic and affable, which afforded her lifelong friends and more importantly, the love of her husband, Ross Lionel Baldwin Jr. Ross and Cathy were married in June of 1981 and had three children. Unfortunately, Cathy lost her husband in 2000. Despite this hardship, she was resilient and devoted fully to raising their children; instilling them with love, wisdom, and compassion.

Cathy had endless praise for her children and referred to them as her three “bright spots”. She was always present in their lives and actively volunteered in various roles, such as marching band mom, after-prom committee member, River Road Swim Club Board Member, Girl Scout Leader, and Cub Scout Den Mother. She was a woman with selective taste who loved to spend her time with her family and dog (Brandy then Ellie), reading, shopping for the best deal, and spending time at the Delaware beaches.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Ross Lionel Baldwin Jr.; her mother-in-law, Elsie N. Baldwin; her parents, Francis J. Dougherty Sr. and Elizabeth F. Dougherty; and her sister, Elizabeth A. Dougherty.

She is survived by her children, Catherine “Katie” Baldwin Chandler (Sean) of Wilmington, DE; Lauren Baldwin Gordon (Nick) of Wilmington, DE; and Ross Lionel Baldwin III (Elizabeth) of Kennett Square, PA. Cathy was the cherished Nana to Emma Elizabeth Gordon (13), Audrey Kate Gordon (9), Parker Ross Chandler (6), Rowan James Chandler (3), Ross Lionel Baldwin IV (3), Riley Joan Baldwin (1). Cathy is remembered fondly by her closest siblings, Francis J. Dougherty Jr. and Patricia Zebley. She is further survived by other relatives and friends.

Although Cathy’s physical presence may no longer grace our lives, her memory will be carried on by all who had the privilege to know her.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. Details will be provided to close friends and family.