CASTLE HAYNE — Cathy Diane Shipman, born on January 30, 1961, in New Hanover County, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2025, in the same county she called home for her entire life. She was 64 years old.
Cathy was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother whose warmth and kindness touched everyone she met. Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life, providing strength and comfort to her and those around her. Cathy found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was shopping, traveling, or tending to her beloved garden. She had a passion for riding motorcycles and playing bingo was another favorite pastime, but nothing brought her more happiness than spending time with her cherished grandchildren, especially her granddaughter, Ava.
Cathy dedicated 25 years of her professional life as a merchandise manager at the USS North Carolina Battleship before retiring. Her commitment and hard work were admired by colleagues and friends alike and she cherished the friendships she built there.
She is preceded in death by her father, Lawrence Richard Holden, and her brother, William Bobby Holden.
In addition to her mother, Pearl Bellerose, Cathy leaves behind a loving family who will forever hold her memory dear: her husband of more than forty years, Michael Shipman; her son, David Holden (Ashlee); her granddaughter, Ava Holden; and her grandsons, Seth and Noah; sisters, Debbie Caldwell (Charlie) and Terry Railey (Tracy); brothers, Glen “Buddy” Holden, Michael Holden, and Billy Holden’; nieces, Jessie Wells and Kristen Slater; nephews, Jonathon Slater and Christopher Christensen.
A memorial service to celebrate Cathy’s life will be held on July 5th, 2025, at 11:00 am at Hope Recovery Church, located at 3403 Winston Blvd., Wilmington. Following the service, interment of ashes will take place at 1:00 pm at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 1311 Shipyard Blvd., Wilmington. Family and friends are invited to gather at the Shipman home after the service at 2220 Oakley Road, Castle Hayne, NC 28429.
Flowers are welcome, and those wishing to honor Cathy’s memory may make memorial contributions to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare hospice.
Cathy’s spirit and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
