CATHY SANTONAS
Cathy Ann Santonas, a dedicated educator and beloved family matriarch, passed away on March 12, 2026. Born in Martins Ferry to the late Bill and Bettie Lou (Metcalfe) Santonas, Cathy’s life was defined by her unwavering commitment to her students and her deep devotion to her family.
For over 40 years, she served as a teacher, leaving an indelible mark on generations of children. In her classroom, she was more than an instructor; she was a mentor, a confidante, and a steady hand. Much like her favorite literary character, Mrs. Wishy-Washy, Cathy believed in the power of a fresh start. She saw the potential in every “messy” situation and met her students with the grace, patience, and “wishy-washy” care needed to help them shine. Outside the classroom, Cathy was the heart of her family. To her nieces and nephews, she was a second mother who truly loved them as her own. She was a friend and mentor – someone they could always trust and go to for advice. Her presence was a blessing that shaped the lives of all who knew her.
Cathy was preceded in death by her parents, Bill, and Bettie Lou (Metcalfe) Santonas, her cherished brother, David Santonas, infant sister, Alexa, and brother-in-law, Steve Morris.
She is survived by her loving sister, Mary Lou Morris, sister-in-law, Cindy Santonas. Cathy’s memory will be forever carried by her nieces and nephews, Lauren (her wife, Sarah), Chris (and his wife Ali), Jordan (and his wife, Claire), Jacob (and his wife Jade), and Kate, as well as her great-nieces and nephews who brought her so much joy and love: Finley, Sophie, Harper, Byron, Henry, Monroe, Sawyer, Delaney, and Dailey.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Cathy’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. While teaching at Glen Dale Elementary, Cathy was inspired by her nephew, who bravely faced and beat childhood cancer to start a Bike-A-Thon at her school, beginning a tradition of support for St. Jude that meant so much to her. “Like the tree that was happiest when it could give, please consider planting a tree in Cathy’s memory.
A celebration of Cathy’s life will be held in the future.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Wilson Funeral Home – Heslop Chapel, 415 Walnut St., Martins Ferry, OH 43935.
To leave online condolences please visit www.wilsonfuneralhomes.com.