Cora L. Cato

Evangelist Cora Lucille Crockett Cato, affectionately known to many as 'Cookie' , was born on January 3, 1956 in Chicago, Illinois, to the union of Henry Crockett and Ruth Mae Jeuitte. She was the fifth of six children, and the youngest of "The Crockett Girls" a beloved daughter, sister, and light within her family whose warmth and kindness left an everlasting imprint on all who knew her. Cora was welcomed into eternal rest by those who went before her: her loving parents Henry Crockett and Ruth Mae Jeuitte; her mother-in-law Mildred Cato; grandmothers Ida Crockett; Cora West; grandfathers Henry Crockett Sr., Crawford Jeuitte, Joe West; her uncle Gilbert Jeuitte; her aunt Equilla Crockett; her dearest sister Sharon; her brother Henry Crockett III (Chuckie); her niece Radiah Nicole; nephew Marvin Sims Jr.; brothers-in-law Willis Randolph Jr. and Minister Gregory Herring; and her son by love Demetrius Dorn. Though deeply missed, their reunion in glory brings comfort and peace to those left behind. As a lifelong learner and dedicated worker, Cora's education began at Holy Family Catholic Grammar School she continuted her education at St. Mary's High School and later Illinois State University. While balancing multiple careers-including Medical Records Clerk, Fannie May Candies Manager, and serviced as a business management staff member at Catholic Charities-she returned to her studies and earned both her Bachelor's and Master's Degree from National Lewis University with a special emphasis in Organizational Leadership. Her commitment and perseverance led her to a well-earned retirement in 2022. Cora met her loving husband, Delmar Cato, and on May 27, 1998, they were united in holy matrimony and shared 27 beautiful years of marriage, grounded in love, faith and devotion. Though she bore no biological children, Cora's heart knew no limits. She lovingly embraced Marie as her daughter from the age of seven, cherished her goddaughter Chanel from birth, and poured love into her sons Demetrius and Dion, grandsons Demetrius Jr, Demarcus, Demarius and Dion Jr, whom she adored deeply. Cora's spiritual journey began at Holy Family Catholic Grammar School, where she first learned of Christ and was baptized. Her love for God continued to grow throughout her life. As an adult, she faithfully attended Abraham Faith Temple where she was an ordained Trustee under the leadership of the late Pastor Doris Bracey. In her later years, she served devotedly as an Evangelist at The Righteous Way of Living Ministries, under the leadership of Pastor Sylvester T. Samuels, Sr., boldly sharing God's word and living out her faith with grace and conviction. Cora leaves to cherish her precious memory her devoted husband Delmar; son Dion; her grandsons; daughter Marie; goddaughter Chanel; sisters Debra (Clyde) and Equilla "Penny"; brothers Duane "Mickey" and Gerald (Marilyn); Heart sibling Wanda Ozier; brothers-in-law Ernest and Gerald (Jane); sisters-in-law Joyce and Janice (Saleem); and a loving host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great nieces and nephews, friends, and all whose lives were blessed by her presence. Those who knew Cora best can still hear her joyful voice and see her warm smile as she greeted everyone she encountered with her signature words, "Hey there, hi there, ho there how are you, where are you?" It was more than a greeting; it was her way of letting you know you were seen, welcomed, and loved. And almost as quickly as the greeting came her faithful declaration, "Praise the Lord, Praise the Lord," a reflection of a heart anchored in gratitude and unwavering faith. These words, so uniquely hers, will forever echo in the hearts of those who were blessed by her presence. Evangelist Cora L. Cato lived a life of faith, service, love and purpose. Her legacy will continue to shine through every soul she touched and every heart she uplifted. Though she has transitioned from this earthly life, her spirit remains forever present-guiding, comforting, and inspiring us all.

Cora L. Cato

January 3, 1956 - December 9, 2025