Tributes

Catherine, lifelong servant of family and community, was born on November 27, 1957, in Robersonville, North Carolina. She was the beloved daughter of Evelyn and James Hudgins and proudly the seventh of ten children, a testament to a loving household where siblings learned early the values of kinship, cooperation, and resilience. Catherine grew up in a family environment that shaped her compassionate heart and practical spirit. She attended Robersonville High School, where she completed her education with the same quiet determination and warmth that would accompany her throughout life. On November 19, 1984, Catherine united in marriage with Early James Jr. and together they built a home in Jamesville, North Carolina. This union lasted almost 30 years. Their partnership was blessed with two children, Ebony and Ellis James, who brought immense joy and purpose to her days. Catherine’s family was always her focal point, and she dedicated herself to nurturing, guiding, and supporting them in every possible way. Catherine contributed her skills and dependable work ethic to several local establishments. She began her professional journey at Southern Apparel. This is where she gained her independence. She eventually ended up at Perdue Farms where she stayed for 19 years and learned the importance of labor, teamwork, and attention to detail. After Perdue she had stints at Anne’s House of Nuts and Fiesta, where she touched the lives of colleagues and patrons alike through her steady presence, friendly smile, and dedication to quality. Catherine enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family. Her life journey took her all over the country. She lived in Florida, Texas, Illinois, and California, each stop adding to the rich tapestry of her life. Yet, she always carried with her the memories, values, and loves of Robersonville and Jamesville. In 2024, she returned home to North Carolina to be near family and the familiar landscape she cherished. Catherine passed away on September 13, 2025, at the age of 67. She was preceded in death by her mother (Evelyn Doris Hudgins), father (James Hudgins), brother (Larry Hudgins), sister (Evelyn Lorraine Jones), and nephews (Terry Ray Jones, Shawn Hudgins and Rashawn Keel). Catherine leaves to cherish her memory: Her children, Ebony Salter (William), Ellis James (April); five grandchildren, Christian James, Kaylee Salter, Keira Salter, Whitney James, and Melanie James; three sisters, Florine Razor, Deborah Porter, and Arlene Hudgins; six brothers, Ronnie Hudgins (Carolyn), Darius Hudgins (Leslie), Gregory Hudgins, James Hudgins Jr., Tony Whitfield (Andrea) , and Wyatt Whitfield (Laura). She also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. We will all honor her memory by continuing to live with the same love, perseverance, and community spirit that she exemplified every day. May we all find comfort in the legacy of Catherine James and strive to carry forward her example of grace, hard work, and enduring love.

Tributes

Ms. Catherine Hudgins James

November 27, 1957 - September 13, 2025