Catherine E. Whitesell

Catherine E. “Mommom” Whitesell, 97, of Lusby, Maryland, formerly of Frederick, Maryland, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026, surrounded by her loving family and friends.

Born on July 13, 1929, in Washington, D.C., Catherine was the daughter of the late Catherina Wendling Jensen and Clarence G. Jensen.

Catherine shared more than 48 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Reese W. Whitesell, who preceded her in death.

Raised in Chevy Chase, Washington, D.C., Catherine graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School before earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska. She returned to Maryland and began a rewarding career as an elementary school teacher. Her passion for education inspired her to continue her own studies, earning a master’s degree and becoming a school librarian, where she touched the lives of countless students throughout her career.

Catherine and Reese made their home in Frederick, Maryland, where they raised their three children. Following retirement, they moved to Lusby to be closer to their growing family. There they built a home filled with love, laughter, and generations of cherished memories, living with their daughter Sally through Reese’s illness and Catherine’s later years.

Stone Harbor, New Jersey, held a special place in Catherine’s heart and was truly her happy place. She delighted in playing bridge, working on—or happily supervising—jigsaw puzzles, stirring up a little harmless mischief, and making the occasional trip to Atlantic City. A devoted Baltimore Orioles fan, she remained loyal through every victory and every rebuilding season, always cheering on her team.

Known affectionately as “Mommom,” Catherine’s greatest joy was her family. Her wisdom, wit, and unwavering love created a legacy that will live on for generations.

Catherine is survived by her children, Thomas R. Whitesell (Laura) of Frederick, Maryland, Sarah “Sally” Whitesell Walton (Randy) of Lusby, Maryland, and Christopher R. Whitesell (Alice Kraus) of West Virginia; her brother, John Robert Jensen; thirteen cherished grandchildren, both biological and blended; fifteen great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Catherine will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her kindness, intelligence, humor, and steadfast devotion to her family will forever remain in the hearts of those whose lives she enriched.

Services will be private.