Catherine Erma Gabriel

Catherine Erma Gabriel, age 100, of Toledo, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Parkcliffe Community. 

Born on June 17, 1924, in Monticello, Kentucky, Catherine was the daughter of Virgil Craft and Beatrice Strokes. She spent her early years in Kentucky before moving to Ohio, where she built a life filled with love and dedication to her family and community.

Catherine was a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church. Many years later, she became a member of New Life Missionary Baptist Church, founded and pastored by her brother-in-law, Rev. Marshall Gabriel.

Catherine worked in various roles throughout her lifetime, including positions at Hunts Starcross, the Post Office, St. Vincent’s Hospital, and Overland Jeep. However, the job she cherished most was at Libbey Glass in the repack department. She took great pride in her work there and retired after 30 years of dedicated service. 

Beyond her professional career, Catherine was devoted to creating a warm and nurturing home for her husband of 36 years, Charles T. Gabriel, and their three sons. She married Charles in 1946, and together they shared a deep commitment to family life. They were both actively involved with the Cub Scouts for many years, with Catherine serving as a dedicated Den Mother who guided and mentored many young scouts. 

 A talented seamstress, Catherine had a passion for sewing and generously shared her skills with others. She took great joy in teaching her nieces how to sew and found fulfillment in crafting beautiful pieces for loved ones. In addition to sewing, she enjoyed spending time at the Lyman W. Higgins Senior Center and taking trips to the casino—activities that brought her happiness and companionship over the years. 

Catherine was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Charles T. Gabriel; and her brother Horace Craft. 

Her loving children survive her, Charles (Glenda), Jerry, and Rodney (Kelly); eight grandchildren, Jacy, Jared, Jamille, Dontae and II-zadod, Nine great-grandchildren; special niece, Denise and Arnetta Parker; and host of family and friends who will cherish her memory forever. 

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Parkcliffe Community for their compassionate care during Catherine’s stay there. 

Please join us in celebrating Catherine’s remarkable life and legacy—she will be deeply missed but forever remembered with love.

The family will receive guests Friday, March 14, 2025 from 4:00 pm. - 8:00 p.m. at Newcomer - SW Chapel, 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd. (419-381-1900). A funeral service will be held Saturday, March 15, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. in the funeral home. Burial will follow at Willow Cemetery in Oregon, Ohio.