Catherine "Cathy" Arant

Catherine "Cathy" Arant, age 99, of Paducah Kentucky, born on May 10, 1925, in Grand Rivers, Kentucky, departed this life peacefully at her residence on November 27, 2024. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who led a life centered around her faith and family. She was a long-standing member of Southland Baptist Temple. 

Cathy dedicated her life to the ministry and was a long-time preacher's wife, sharing in the spiritual journeys of many alongside her late husband, Clarence Arant. Together, they founded the River City Baptist Church and River City Mission, milestones of which she was immensely proud. Her commitment to her faith was further manifested in her work within her church, particularly in the nursery at Southland Baptist Temple, where she found joy in nurturing young lives.

In her quieter moments, Cathy found solace in reading her Bible and cherishing time spent with her family. She was known for her shy and gentle personality, traits that endeared her to all who knew her. Her love and devotion to her children and family were profound, and she leaves behind a legacy rich with love and faith.

Cathy is survived by her sons, Kenneth Arant (Alice) of Milford, Ohio, Barry Arant (Barbara) of Paducah, and Larry Arant (Lora) of Brookport, Illinois; and her daughter, Debbie Edmonds (Robert) of Paducah. She also cherished her special friendship with Shelby Gross. Cathy was adored by her 14 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 17 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom carry her love forward.

She is preceded in death by her parents, William and Lula Ethel Helton; her husband of 60 years, Clarence Arant, her brothers, Archie, Mason, and C.D. Helton; her sisters, Ethel Haycraft, Francis Helton, and Jane Polsgrove; and her grandsons, Eric Arant & Steve Ferguson; as well as her great-grandchildren Devin Timmons and Travis Baddig.

A graveside service will be held in her honor on Monday, December 2, 2024, at 1:00 PM at Maplelawn Park Cemetery & Mausoleum in Paducah, Kentucky, with Bro. Jimmy Franks & Pastor Larry Luffman officiating.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to River City Mission,1466 Bechtold Rd, Paducah, KY 42003, (270) 442-7921. https://www.paypal.com/donate?token=0mFEkmNqQja4Qo6NO-QAl8IRswrpKH6toxYl0rLucmWEBWsL8WV7P_nuJ4kTfDfxQjjT5a6rarel_8G8 

Cathy Arant’s legacy of love and faith will continue to inspire her family and friends, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Keeling & Goodman Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Arant family.