Catherine Mary Atkinson

Catherine Mary Atkinson (nee Hendron), affectionally known as Cass, of Galloway NJ, was born on March 12, 1928, in Philadelphia, Pa. to the late William S. and Elva (nee Grasberger) Hendron, and passed away peacefully on February 23, 2026, at the age of 97 years 11.5 months. She was always precise with her exact age and proud of it.

Cass was the loving and devoted wife of 68 years to the late Albert H. Atkinson and the cherished mother of C. Diane “Katie” Azzatori and her late husband, John, with whom Cass resided for the last 13 years of her life.

Cass is also lovingly survived by many cherished nieces and nephews, in particular Vera Blair McGuire, her Goddaughter, who was like a daughter to her, Ellie Atkinson Hall, who faithfully cared for and stayed with her Aunt Cass during two recent emergencies, and David Blair, who was like the son she never had.

She was predeceased by her beloved sister and best friend, Elva Blair.

Upon her early retirement from Publicker Industries in Phila. Pa. as an executive secretary, Cass enjoyed her time as an Astrologer creating numerous natal and horary charts for family and friends. She even created and sent natal charts to several presidential nominees. She also enjoyed knitting and crocheting thru out her life from the time she was a teen. She was also a voracious reader enjoying books on religion, history, health, biographies and politics. People were always astounded by her wealth of knowledge and her curiosity on life, especially when she became older. Her mind and memory remained sharp to the end. She was a joy to be around, and people were drawn to her genuine sweetness - to be in her presence was to feel seen and loved. She was everyone's biggest fan.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her viewing on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Burns Funeral Home,9708 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia, Pa 19114. Her funeral service will follow at 11:30 a.m.

Interment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please remit donations in memory of Catherine M. Atkinson to: 12 Inch Tails, 325 E Jimmie Leeds Rd, STE 7, #186, Galloway NJ 08205, a non-profit organization for rescuing and rehoming cats.