Mary 'Cathy' Wiggins

Mary Cathryn “Cathy” Wiggins, 94, of Champaign, passed away peacefully at her home on November 10, 2025. Cathy was born on September 18, 1931, in Cairo, Illinois, to Dewey and Bertha Bryant. From a young age, she had a spark about her—a mix of kindness, grit, and humor that never left her. She met Verlon “Wig” Wiggins, and the two married on November 11, 1947. Together, they built a beautiful life that spanned 62 years, full of laughter, family, and plenty of Saturday-night dancing.

After moving to Champaign, Cathy poured her heart into her work as a beautician. In 1972, she opened Cathy’s Beauty Boutique inside her home. Her shop wasn’t just a place to get your hair done—it was where friendships grew, stories were shared, and laughter echoed through the years. Cathy had a gift for making people feel beautiful, and many of her clients became lifelong friends.

Her grandchildren will never forget their time in the beauty parlor: the smell of hairspray, the sound of her laughter, and the way she made everyone feel welcome. Cathy loved cooking, gathering, and enjoying anything sweet. She also took care of every dog that needed a home and grew and maintained an elaborate garden.

In her later years, she found joy in simple moments—like watching her favorite soap operas and spending time with her family. No matter what life brought, Cathy faced it with grace, humor, and love. 

She is survived by her daughters, Rebecca (Tim) Arnold of Bondville, IL, Lisa (Dale Hedrick) Wiggins of Urbana, IL, and Christina (Jeff) Kouski of Champaign, IL; grandchildren Spencer May of Melbourne, FL, Heather (Jeff) Riehle of Broadlands, IL, Natalie (Jared) Saathoff of Merritt Island, FL, and Joel (Sarah) Kouski of Lake Mary, FL; ten great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter, Kali; and a dear family friend, Bill May of Melbourne, FL, who was like a son to her. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, two infant grandsons, and her infant sister.

In keeping with her wishes, Cathy will be cremated and placed with her beloved husband during an intimate gathering at Dogwood Cemetery in East Prairie, MO, in the Spring.

Those wishing to honor her memory may make contributions to The Salvation Army. A special thank you goes to Carle Hospice and Shaii Smith and her team of caregivers for their compassion and care.

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