December 6, 1913 - January 25, 2008
Gilchrist
Lizzie Cato
Aunt Lizzie (as she was affectionately known) was born December 6, 1913 in Washington County, GA. She shared her birthday with her sister Lula Cato White. Her early years were spent working in fields and around the house. It was then that she knew that couldn't be her long time occupation. She married Charlie Davis of Ocnee, GA at age 19 (which was considered late in those times). She attended the family church (Robin Springs MBC) in Sandersville. She moved to Milledgeville as time passed and later to Macon where she met and married her second husband, James Gilchrist Sr. She united with Greater Vineville MBC in Macon, GA. She served on the Mother's Board, and eventually became the Mother of the Church until her death. Additionally, she sang in the choir, and was Sunday School Treasurer.
She was affiliated with the Fort Hill Chapter #178 Order of the Eastern Star, Daughter of ISIS, Royal Lady Place, Electra Grand Chapter, and served as Treasurer for 30+ years of the Rose Garden (Housekeepers) Social and Savings Club. She was well spoken and didn't take any mess. She retired from the Macon Bibb County School System's Nutritional Department.
Her family remembers most her love for cooking. She would throw herself a birthday party every year in which she cooked all the food. All you had to do was ask for your favorite dish and she would provide it in abundance. Holidays would be spent at her house. Her loving kisses were described as "golden"... Always soft and sweet.
She made the best cheese twists "oh my God, them things used to be so good" is how they've been described by some of her grandchildren. She would fill those cookie tins and ship them in the mail.
After retiring in 1979, she remained extremely busy taking people to doctor's appointments, visiting the sick and helping where she could. Her Watch Words: Duty & Faithfulness are what she lived by.
Her love for her family prompted her to begin the Cato Family Reunions in 1978. She wanted everyone to know and love each other like she did.