Catherine Koskos, 93, went to be with her Lord on November 1, 2019, at Red Bank Nursing facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Catherine was born on November 5, 1926 in Chattanooga and remained a resident for her entire life.
She was honored at her retirement in 1989 at a reception given by the Chamber of Commerce for her nearly 30 years of exceptional service to the city she loved. Catherine was described on that occasion by Lee Anderson, then publisher and editor of Chattanooga News Free Press as a “brilliant person with a sharp mind, smiling face, and energetic personality”.
Catherine graduated from Chattanooga City High School and later from the University of Chattanooga where she received degrees in history, political science and French. Upon graduation, she taught at Girls Preparatory School for four years before accepting a position at the Times Free Press where she worked for several years as a reporter, writer of book reviews, and also performed various administrative tasks. It was at the newspaper that her love for Chattanooga grew broader. She ultimately accepted an offer to become a part of the team at United Fund (now United Way) where she remained for 21 years; she soon became an associate director there and was honored as one of the first female executives in Chattanooga.
While at United Fund, the Chattanooga division of United Fund became one of the top fundraisers in the United States. After leaving the United Fund, Catherine accepted a management position at the Chamber of Commerce, ultimately retiring from there to carry on in a life dedicated to volunteering in the city she loved.
Catherine was a devout Christian, fiercely dedicated to her church and community. She was instrumental in the founding of the Redeemer Anglican Church in Chattanooga and was a faithful member until her health prevented attending.
She will be remembered for her feisty spirit, sharp processing of life and sharp wit.
Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 12, at Chattanooga Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial gift may be sent to Anglican Church of the Redeemer, 104 McBrien Road, Chattanooga, Tn. 37411.
Visit www.heritagechattanooga.com to share condolences.
Arrangements are entrusted to Heritage Funeral Home, E. Brainerd Chapel.