Catherine R. Brooks, lovingly known as “Migs”, passed away on April 6, 2026, at Upstate Hospital. Born in Watertown, Catherine spent most of her life in Syracuse. She graduated from North Syracuse High School in 1972 and dedicated the past 26 years of her career to Rapid Response.

Cathy was an avid reader, a talented gardener, and a devoted animal lover—especially of cats. She was well known for her kindness and her habit of welcoming cats into her home and showering them with affection.

She was predeceased by her parents, Joan and James McDonald, and her brother, John “Jack” McDonald. Catherine is survived by her sons, Matthew Wilkinson and Tyler Brooks, as well as her sisters, Janet Rexroth, Maureen Rose-Zipf, Patricia Licursi, and Sara Paolini.

In keeping with Catherine’s wishes, there will be no services. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to CNY Cat Coalition.