Funeral service will be 1:00 P.M. on Monday, June 16, 2025, at Bethel AME Church, Leland, NC.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.  Visitation is from 5-7:00 P.M. on Sunday at Bethel AME Church.

On May 24, 1947, Reverend Doctor Raleigh Owens and Neomia Owens of Leland, North Carolina welcomed their beautiful baby girl, Catherine, into the world. Raised in a close-knit, faith-filled family and surrounded by a supportive community, Catherine's upbringing shaped her into a woman of deep compassion, boundless generosity, and unwavering commitment to helping others. After graduating from Lincoln High School, Catherine pursued higher education at Miller-Motte Business School and Cape Fear Community College—laying the groundwork for a life spent empowering others through knowledge, encouragement, and love. One of Catherine's greatest joys was recounting her early life in Northwest. With sparkling eyes and a vivid memory, she would entertain friends and family with hilarious, colorful stories, often peppered with pitch-perfect impressions of every character involved. Her storytelling Wasn't just funny— it was unforgettable. Catherine's deep love for God and community shone brightly in every area of her life. As a devoted member of Bethel A.M.E. Church, she poured her time and talents into service, holding roles that included Trustee, Steward, Youth Director, Class Leader, Missionary, Convention Delegate, and choir member. No task was too big or too small if it helped build up the body of Christ or uplift others. Her community impact extended far beyond the church doors. As an employee of International Paper in Riegelwood, NC. Catherine founded the company's annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration, ensuring the legacy of justice and equality lived on in the workplace and surrounding communities. After more than 20 years of service, she retired—but in name only, her heart for service never rested. Catherine remained civically engaged throughout her life. She worked tirelessly to increase voter participation, helping citizens across several communities get to the polls and make their voices heard. She brought youth workshops to the Town of Northwest and even founded a dance group to help young people discover and develop their talents. Her love of people was matched by her flair for fashion. Catherine opened a dress shop in Clarkton, NC where she shared her impeccable style, and uplifting spirit. Her entrepreneurial work was recognized with the Millennium Woman of the Year business award in New Hanover County, and an award from the Paul R. Brown Civic Group in Bladen County. Catherine lived by the simple but powerful motto: "If I have helped someone along the way, then my living was not in vain", and indeed, she helped many. She was first married to Edward Carl Hicks, Sr. on August 2, 1969, and to this union, two children were born. Later in life, she was united in marriage to Franklin Randolph, Sr., who preceded her in death. Catherine's legacy lives on through the many lives she touched. Cherishing her memory are her two beloved children: Edward Carl Hicks, Jr. of Greensboro, NC and Turjah Freeman (Scottie) of Leland, NC; eleven grandchildren: Chelsea, Brianna, Kenya, Javian, Kimya, Kasia, Jaylen, Dylena, Zipporah, Jayden and Ava; two great grands; Jakeer and Mia; three sisters Ada, Serlenia (Theodore) and Shirley, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will always remember her laughter, her guidance, her strength— and above all, her love.