Cathy Denise Durden

Cathy Denise Durden, known for her caring heart, strength, and dedication to helping others, was born on March 9, 1958, in Queens, New York, at Elmhurst General Hospital. She peacefully departed this life, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and love.  

Cathy was the beloved daughter of the late Frank Durden Jr. and Rudean Rhodes of Atlanta, Georgia.  She was baptized at the age of eight at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend May and carried her Christian faith with her throughout her life.  

A graduate of Beach Channel High School, Class of 1976, Cathy was known for her outgoing personality and love of sports and fellowship.  She especially enjoyed softball, card games including Spades and Poker, and playing Bingo with family and friends. Cathy once shared that if she could relive part of her life, she would have pursued college softball and perhaps earned a scholarship.  

Cathy dedicated much of her professional life to helping others recover and rebuild their lives. As a retired Substance Abuse Counselor with Rehabilitation Services and Apple: A Program for Life Enrichment, she found purpose in guiding others toward healing and sobriety.  She often reflected proudly on the many individuals whose lives she helped change, believing her greatest mission was helping people “get their lives back on track.”  

Among Cathy’s proudest moments were giving birth to her son and later watching him become a loving father himself when her granddaughter was born.  Her family was her greatest joy and source of pride. 

She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted son, Robert J. McFarland and daughter-in-law, Thalise McFarland of Sanford, North Carolina; her cherished grandchildren, Kyla McFarland of Spring Lake, North Carolina, Andre P. McFarland, and Xander McFarland of Sanford, North Carolina.  

Cathy is also survived by her siblings and extended family: Diane Durden, Sandra Durden, Larry Durden, Donita Harrison, Patricia Brown, Gwendolyn Weaver, and Sabrina Durden.  She was preceded in death by Harold Durden and Janet Beamon.  

Cathy will forever be remembered for her kindness, honesty, and willingness to help anyone in need. She believed deeply in treating people with compassion and respect and took pride in never mistreating others. Her warm spirit, wisdom, and love will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Her favorite things included the color blue, red roses, fried chicken and gravy, and visits to The Schooner Seafood Restaurant. She found comfort in scripture, especially Psalm 23 and Psalm 100. 

The funeral service will be on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Mt. Zion Church in Cary. The visitation will begin at 11 a.m., followed by the service at 12 p.m.  Burial will follow at Pinelawn Memorial Park in Southern Pines. A repast will be held following the interment at 4:30 p.m. at the Roman Eagle #550 Masonic Lodge: 11611 US 15-501, Aberdeen.  All family and friends are welcome to attend for a time of fellowship and remembrance.

Online condolences can be made at PinesFunerals.com.

Fry & Prickett Funeral Home is serving the Durden family.