Catherine Ann Hull was born in September 1941, in Wilmington, Delaware, the first of four children to Donald and Blanche Hull.
She graduated from Alexis I. DuPont High School in 1959 and went on to attend Allegheny College for two years. Cathy loved to share that her college days ended because she played a little too much bridge.
Her career began at Winterthur Museum, where she was hired by the director after completing Goldey-Beacom Business School. It was the only job she ever held, and she devoted herself to it, eventually retiring as the Director of Marketing and Licensing for Reproductions.
The story goes that Robert Maxwell first laid eyes on Cathy from the top of a building he was painting while working at Winterthur. By March of 1966, the two were married at Greenhill Presbyterian Church, beginning a partnership that would shape the rest of their lives. Cathy embraced her role as a mother. She became a mom to Betsy, Robin, Denise, and Rebecca from Bob’s first marriage, and together they welcomed son William “Bill” Maxwell and daughter Catherine “Kate” Maxwell.
Together Cathy and Bob were active in local politics, served as elders at Greenhill Presbyterian Church, and were respected in the recovery community. Cathy’s passions included teaching Sunday School collecting antiques, gardening, and Diet Coke.
She is survived by her son, Bill Maxwell; and her daughter, Kate Maxwell, daughters Robin Roberts, Betsy Runne, and Denise Paiva and her daughter, Alex Day. Together, she and Bob were proud grandparents to 11 grandchildren and great-grandparents to 11 more. Cathy also leaves behind her beloved brother and best friend, Robert Hull; her sister, Jean Herman; and her nephew George Hull Jr. Cathy shared a special bond with her daughter-in-law, Ginine, and son-in-law, David.
Awaiting her in heaven are her husband, Bob; her parents, Blanche and Don; her brother, George Hull; and her daughter, Rebecca.
Carl Sandburg once wrote, “The moon is a friend for the lonesome to talk to.” The next time you see a full moon, take a moment to say hello to Cathy.
In lieu of flowers (and we really mean no flowers) the family asks that you make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Foundation in honor of Cathy (https://www.alz.org) or to fund the addiction and wellness center at Salesianum High School in Bob’s name (https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/55619/donations/new )
Friends and family are welcome to gather for a memorial service to honor Cathy at Greenhill Presbyterian Church on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 11:00 am. Interment will follow.
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