Cathy Craven

Cathy J. Craven, age 74, of New London, MO passed away at 3:30 pm Friday, July 18, 2025, at her home surrounded by her family.

Memorial services will be held 11:00 am Saturday, July 26, 2025 at Smith Funeral Home & Chapel. Randy Downing will officiate. Burial will be in the Barkley Cemetery in New London, MO.

Visitation celebrating Cathy's life will be held at 10:00 am until 11:00 am Saturday July 26, 2025 at the Smith Funeral Home & Chapel.

Cathy was born on March 9, 1951, in Danville, Illinois the daughter of John and Iris (Shepard) Milewsksi.

She was united in marriage to Clyde "Bud" C. Craven on March 9, 1969 in Potomac, IL. He preceded her in death on November 9. 2016.

Survivors include her daughter, Anna Daniels (Troy) of Danville, IL, two sons, Clyde "Buddy" Craven III of Columbia, MO and Jeff Craven (Cindi) of Twentynine Palms, CA, three brothers, Bill Milewsksi (Margie), Richard Milewsksi and Mike Milewsksi (Christine), two sisters, Felicia Milewsksi (Stella) and Sue Roberts. Also surviving are Cathy's many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, her two cats Pepper and Maggie and grandpup Piggy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, great grandparents Guy and Opal Shepard, two brothers, John Milewsksi and Buddy Gene Peggs, sister, Lavada Hannah, niece, Lynn Lientz and special friend, Penny Cramlett.

Cathy attended high school and received her GED and went on to be a wife and mother.

Professionally Cathy worked as a nurse, in physical therapy and in Medical Records for Willow Care Center until her retirement.

Cathy was a Christian by faith.

Cathy was a woman of warmth, laughter, and quiet joy, who found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She passed away surrounded by love, leaving behind a family who will forever cherish her kind heart and spirited nature.

Cathy had a special fondness for puzzles on her iPad, often spending quiet hours thoughtfully solving each one. She was also a talented counted cross-stitcher, creating beautiful works of art with needle and thread-each piece stitched with patience and love.

She was known for her love of dancing, often lighting up the room with her joy and energy. Cathy enjoyed watching her favorite shows-Law & Order, Chicago Fire, and 90 Day Fiancé-always ready to chat about the latest twists and turns.

But above all, Cathy treasured time with her family. Whether it was a simple gathering or a big celebration, her presence made everything brighter. Her love was unwavering, her laughter unforgettable, and her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

She will be dearly missed.

Memorial contributions may be made to Barkley Cemetery, in care of Smith Funeral Home & Chapel..

Online condolences may be made to the family and video tribute viewed on Cathy's memorial page at www.smithfuneralhomeandchapel.com