Cathy Schwab, a luminary in the world of university administration, left this world on June 3, 2023. She was 71.

Born to Marie and Floyd Schwab, Cathy became a beacon of knowledge, compassion, and tenacity that positively impacted countless lives throughout her illustrious career.

Cathy was a lifelong learner who held a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Massachusetts and a Master’s degree from Ohio State University. She served with grace and aplomb in administrative roles at Maryland University, Clemson University, and finally at Penn State University, where she made an indelible mark as Director of Admissions. Under her guidance, these institutions thrived, fostering an atmosphere of growth and enlightenment.

Predeceased by her father, Floyd Schwab, Cathy’s spirit lives on in her resilient mother, Marie Schwab, who at a remarkable 94 continues to inspire her family. She also leaves behind a legacy carried forward by her siblings: Linda Haughey and her husband, Dennis, Wendy Dejneka and her husband, Andrew, Marianne Busher and her husband, Edward, Clifford Schwab and his wife, Joy, and Eric Schwab and his wife, Judy, who remember her with fondness and gratitude for her tireless support, wisdom, and love. She is also survived by numerous cherished nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, extended family, and many dear friends.

Before embarking on her professional journey, Cathy was crowned the 1971 New Jersey State Dairy Princess, a testament to her unique blend of intellect, charm, and commitment to her community. Throughout her life, Cathy continued to passionately support causes close to her heart. She was particularly dedicated to the Jenni M. Haver Memorial Scholarship Fund, an endeavor that perfectly embodied her belief in education’s transformative power.

Family and friends will gather to pay tribute to Cathy on Sunday, June 11, 2023, from 1:00 -3:00 p.m., in the Chapel of Wright & Ford Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 38 State Highway 31, Flemington, NJ.

Life celebration services officiated by Certified Life Celebrant D.J. Wright will take place at 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home and to which all are welcome.

Burial near her adored father at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery, Old York Road, East Amwell Township, NJ, will follow the service and again, all are welcome.

In memory of Cathy, a guiding star in the constellation of academia, those wishing to honor her life are kindly asked to make donations to the American Parkinson’s Disease Association, at https://apdaparkinson.org. This cause held special meaning for Cathy, and your generosity will undoubtedly help make a difference in the lives of those affected by this condition.

Cathy’s passion for education, unwavering dedication to her family and community, and the myriad of lives she touched throughout her journey on this earth will continue to reverberate in the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege of knowing her. Cathy Schwab, a woman of profound substance and spirit, will be missed, but her remarkable legacy will live on.

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Wright & Ford, your local, family owned & operated “Life Celebration Home”