Cathie Jean Ford

Cathie Jean Ford, 81, died peacefully in her sleep at her care home in Yorba Linda, California, on July 2, 2026. She was born on December 8, 1944, in Rockledge, Brevard County, Florida, to the late Harlen and Rosemary (Hoffman) Ford. Her father served as an airplane mechanic and pilot during World War II, and after the war the family returned to Columbus, Ohio.

Cathie grew up in Whitehall, Ohio, where she graduated from Whitehall High School in 1962. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ohio State University in 1967.

Looking for adventure, Cathie moved to Honolulu, Hawaii, in 1968, where she began her nursing career at Queen's Hospital in downtown Honolulu.

In 1980, she moved to Dallas, Texas, where she earned a Master of Science degree from Texas Woman's University in 1983. During that time, she enjoyed being close to her brother Eric, his wife Ginny, niece Heather, and helping care for her new nephew Patrick.

After completing her degree, Cathie moved to California to be closer to family. She lived in San Diego for a time before settling in Orange County.

Cathie dedicated 42 years to nursing, caring for patients with skill, compassion, and kindness. Retirement never diminished her desire to help others. She lovingly assisted her mother, Rosemary, and Rosemary's friend Fred with errands and medical appointments. She was always willing to care for Lynne's children when they were sick, and even after moving into her care home, she looked for ways to help and encourage the other residents.

Outside of nursing, Cathie was deeply creative. Through her business, Whimsies, she designed and sold handmade bears, dolls, and other crafts. She also enjoyed writing poetry and creating imaginative stories about her nieces and nephews when they were young.

Cathie had a lifelong love of animals and shared her home with many beloved dogs, cats, and fish over the years. She was also a devoted member of the Orange County Orchid Society.

Above all, Cathie will be remembered for her caring heart, adventurous spirit, creativity, and unwavering devotion to her family. She found joy in helping others and left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

Cathie is survived by her brother, Eric Ford (Virginia) of Santa Clarita, California; her sister, Lynne Buzdar (Nek) of Placentia, California; her nephews Patrick Ford (Shawna), Jon Buzdar, Alan Buzdar (Jordan), and Omar Buzdar; and her nieces Heather Morganstein, Erin Hanelt (Kristian), and Nikki Buzdar.