Celebrating the Life of Mrs. Catherine Elaine Hopson Staples

With hearts full of love and deep remembrance, we honor the life and legacy of Mrs. Catherine Elaine Hopson Staples, a beloved mother, grandmother, educator, and faithful servant, who passed peacefully on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at the age of 77.

Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Catherine was the cherished daughter of the late Eddie B. (Ford) Ridgel and Leland Hopson, and the stepdaughter of the late Neal Ridgel. A proud graduate of Ullman High School and Daniel Payne College, Catherine pursued a career in education, earning her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education. She dedicated forty (40) years of service to the Roanoke City Schools, where she made a lasting impact as a passionate and caring third-grade teacher at Knight-Enloe Elementary School.

On December 26, 1970, Catherine married the love of her life, Mr. Robert Staples, Sr., and together they built a beautiful life rooted in faith, family, and community. Their union was blessed with two children: Keshia Danielle Morgan of Roanoke, AL, and Robert Mitchell Staples, Jr. (Shaneeda) of Montgomery, AL. Though Robert Sr. preceded her in death in December, 2019, their enduring love remained a guiding light in Catherine’s life.  Catherine was also preceded in death by: her beloved mother, Eddie B. Ridgel; step-father, Neal Ridgel; maternal grandparents, Edward and Vera Ford; paternal grandmother, Lucille Hopson; two (2) paternal sisters, and a son-in-law, Amman Morgan. 

Catherine was a woman of unshakable faith, a devoted member of Peace & Goodwill Baptist Church, and a participant in the Lily White Chapter #352 OES, and the Missionary Society until her health began to decline. She truly found joy in fellowship, service, and spiritual growth.

Known for her grace, warmth, and humor, Catherine loved connecting with former students and coworkers on Facebook, spending quality time with her great-grandchildren, and enjoying annual family trips to the Florida coast. A lifelong fan of HGTV and Alabama football, she cherished life’s simple pleasures and lived with a deep appreciation for beauty, home, and tradition.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, seven grandchildren —Takira, KeChawn, Bria, Ashton, Savannah, Gabrielle, and Lillian, and five great-grandchildren—Braylee, Brayden, Karter, Reign, and Yahari. She also leaves behind her devoted brother, Neal Ridgel, III (Delphia) of Conyers, GA; a special aunt, Eloise Martin; her dear sisters- and brothers-in-law—Gale and Larry McFarland, Rev. Calvin and Patricia Trammell, Gloria Farrow (Foy), Alvin Trammell (Kathy), Larry Rachel (Sheldia), and Liz Foster (Thomas McCray) who were all like siblings to her; and several other brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.

A Legacy of Love and Faith

As we bid farewell to our beloved Catherine, we find comfort in knowing that her life was a living testimony of grace, wisdom, and unwavering faith. She sowed seeds of kindness and knowledge into the lives of so many—whether in her classroom, her church, or around her kitchen table. Her soft voice, radiant smile, and nurturing spirit made her a beacon of hope and encouragement.

She taught us how to love without condition, how to stand strong through life’s trials, and how to find joy in every season. Though her physical presence will be missed, her values and her voice live on in the generations she raised, the students she taught, and the lives she touched.

Her family extends heartfelt thanks to all who have offered prayers, kind words, and support during this time of loss. Special appreciation is given to her church family at Peace & Goodwill Baptist Church, her colleagues and friends from Roanoke City Schools, and her caregivers and neighbors who showed compassion and love during her later years.

Acknowledgment

The family of Mrs. Catherine Elaine Staples wishes to express sincere gratitude for every act of kindness shown to them during this time. Your visits, calls, meals, and comforting words have meant more than words can convey. May God bless each of you abundantly.

“Her children rise up and call her blessed…” – Proverbs 31:28
Forever in our hearts, Catherine’s legacy lives on.

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