Cathy Sykes Harrell

Raleigh-Cathy Sykes Harrell, 56, of Raleigh, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2012 after a long and courageous battle with brain cancer. Born March 02, 1956, she was the daughter of the late Pat D. Sykes, Sr. Cathy is survived by her devoted husband, William (Billy) Harrell, her daughter Emily Harrell of Garner, NC, and son Jason Harrell of Raleigh, NC. She is also survived by her mother Rebecca Sykes of Thomasville, NC, her sister Debbie Brandon and husband Steve, her sister Penny Creasman and husband Benjy, her brother Pat Sykes Jr. and sister-in-law Barbara, her sister-in law Beverly Price and husband, Tom, along with numerous nieces and nephews. She earned a BA Degree in Business in 1977 from NC State University, where she met her husband of 35 years. Cathy was a long time employee of Martin Marietta in Raleigh until her retirement in 2011. She was a member of Aversboro Road Baptist Church where she taught 3 yr. olds for 18 years. Cathy loved spending time at the beach, reading, was an avid NC State fan and enjoyed attending home games to cheer for her beloved Wolfpack. Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, 831 Wake Forest Rd. Raleigh, NC with Dr. Gattis Perry officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Raleigh, NC. The family would like to acknowledge the kindness and care of the staff of Hospice of Wake County. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Wake County, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607. (www.hospiceofwake.org).