annette kennedy catchings
1941-2022
Life Story
Beloved Daughter • Wife • Newton County Native
Early Life
Annette Kennedy was born on February 14, 1941, to Simon Kennedy (1899–1984) and Ida Mosley Kennedy (1903–2012). Raised in a close-knit family, Annette grew up surrounded by the values of perseverance, faith, and community that defined life in rural Newton County.
Marriage and Life Journey
Annette was married to Willie Catchings, with whom she shared her later years. Earlier in her life, she was married to a man with the surname Wesley. During this period, she lived in Gary, Indiana, a common destination for many African Americans who migrated north in search of greater opportunity, employment, and economic stability.
Despite the distance and challenges, Annette maintained ties to her Mississippi roots and eventually returned home to Newton County.
1972 House Fire
In 1972, Annette experienced a devastating loss when her home was destroyed by fire. While she slept, the fire began, and she awoke to smoke and flames. Although she escaped with her life, the house and all her belongings were a total loss. This tragedy left a deep mark on her life story, reflecting both her vulnerability and her resilience.
Later Years and Passing
Annette Kennedy Catchings passed away on February 28, 2022. She was laid to rest in Evans Cemetery in the Bethel community of Newton County, Mississippi—among family, friends, and generations connected to the land and history she came from.
SIDEBAR: Key Facts About Annette K. Catchings
Birth & Parents
- Born: February 14, 1941
- Father: Simon Kennedy (1899–1984)
- Mother: Ida Mosley Kennedy (1903–2012)
Marriages
- Early marriage: Mr. Wesley
- Later marriage: Willie Catchings
Residences
- Lived in Gary, Indiana before returning to Newton County
Significant Event
- 1972 house fire: Home and furnishings completely destroyed; Annette escaped while sleeping
Death & Burial
- Died: February 28, 2022
- Burial: Evans Cemetery, Bethel community, Newton County, MS
Resting Place
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1950 Federal Census
- U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current
- The Newton Record, Simon Kennedy Obituary, Wed, Sep 26, 1984 ·Page 6
- The Newton Record, Negro House Burns Monday Morning, Wed, Jun 07, 1972 ·Page 4
- U.S., Index to Public Records, 1994-2019
- U.S., Phone and Address Directories, 1993-2002
- U.S., Public Records Index, 1950-1993, Volume 2
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