Cathay Lynn (Smithers) McAninch Obituary

September 12, 1942 – April 28, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Cathay Lynn (Smithers) McAninch, age 82, on April 28, 2025, in Watertown, Tennessee. Cathay was born on September 12, 1942, in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, to the late Robert William and Pearl Marie (Boda) Smithers. From an early age, Cathay’s gentle soul, quiet strength, and love for life began to shine through – qualities that she carried gracefully throughout her journey.

She was a proud graduate of St. Mary’s Springs Academy in Wisconsin, where her dedication to education and service was honored with the St. Mary’s Springs Academy Alumni Association Award. Cathay dedicated over 30 years of her life to MetLife Insurance, where her loyalty and kindness made a lasting impact on both coworkers and clients. But it was beyond the workplace where her light truly flourished. She found her greatest joy in the simple, beautiful things – camping under the stars, casting a fishing line on a quiet lake, boating with loved ones, or sitting still, watching birds in their peaceful dance.

Her calm spirit and appreciation for nature left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She took comfort in the simple joys of puzzles, coloring, and reading – small moments that reflected her deep appreciation for life’s quieter moments.

Raised in the Catholic faith, Cathay remained spiritually grounded throughout her life. In later years, she was a member of Priest Lake Presbyterian Church, where she found community and peace. She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Robert William and Pearl Marie Smithers; her beloved son, Alex Robert Mankoski; and the love of her life, Jack McAninch, whose memory she held close always.

Cathay’s love continues through her devoted daughter and best friend, LeAnne Karen Reed of Watertown, TN, who lovingly stood by her side; her brother, Dale Smithers (Patty) of Atlantic, Iowa; and her niece, Kelly (Smithers) Wegner (Randy) of Green Bay, WI. She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Eligha Reed III of Watertown, TN; Joseph Mankoski of Murfreesboro, TN; and Sarah Tidwell (Marks Jr.) of Shelbyville, TN; along with her treasured great-grandchildren: McKenzie, Nick, and Sammy. In addition, she leaves behind a loving extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins who reside out of state.

Cathay will be remembered not only for her quiet strength, but for the warmth she brought into every room. She made people feel truly heard, deeply loved, and never alone. Even the simplest moments became meaningful in her presence. Her legacy lives on in the love she gave, the comfort she offered, and the beautiful memories she leaves behind in the hearts of those who knew her.

The family would like to share this special poem in her honor:

God looked around His garden, and He found an empty place.
He then looked down upon this earth and saw your tired face.
He put His arms around you and lifted you to rest.
God’s garden must be beautiful – He always takes the best.
He knew that you were suffering, He knew you were in pain.
He knew that you would never get well on Earth again.
He saw the road was getting rough, and the hills were hard to climb.
So He closed your weary eyelids and whispered, “Peace be thine.”
It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone –
For part of us went with you the day God called you home.

In accordance with Cathay’s wishes, no formal services will be held. Ellis Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Nashville is assisting the family with arrangements. Please leave your condolences and share your memories – her story lives on through all of us. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Cathay, please visit our floral store.