Cathy Clark | leemaclellanfamily

Cathy Clark - GRAND DAUGHTER

Cathy Clark was born in 1953, the second child of Janet and Ed Clark, and the second grand daughter of Lee and Irma MacLellan. Cathy later changed her name to Catherine.

I realized something unique about Cathy on a family vacation in Maine. It was a rainy day, so outdoor activities were out. Instead we all sat in a semi-circle in the large parlor of our rented house. Conversation was slow until Cathy, who was about ten at the time, stood up and started talking.

She was one of the youngest persons in the room, but that didn't stop her. She went around the room, picking on each of the adults, saying or making up something about that adult that was hilarious. We were all in stitches. That activity presaged her 40 year career. From long-term care to Parks and Recreation and the YMCA, Cathy enjoyed working with senior adults.

After graduating from Longmeadow High School in 1971, Cathy received an A.A. from Bradford College. After Bradford, she transferred to the University of Massachusetts, where in 1975 she received a B.S. in Therapeutic Recreation. It was there that she met her future husband, Donald (Donnie) Russell Mugford (1953 -).

After their marriage Cathy and Don lived in Phoenix VA before moving to Richmond VA, where her older brother and sister-in-law lived. Cathy created her career in Richmond as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. Cathy and Don lived together for 8 years.

Towards the end of her career Cathy moved to Vermont to live closer to her daughter Sarah and grandson Arlo Mansfield. Mansfield was our father's middle name.

Cathy's 3 greatest accomplishments (in her own words)

Graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) with an M.S. in Therapeutic Recreation
Sitting for and passing the first national exam to become a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS)
Having her child, Sarah Emily Mugford, on August 11, 1980

Cathy's high school picture

Cathy with grandson Arlo

As the Resident Engagement Director, Cathy hosted the 2018 annual Christmas party at Quarry Hill, an upscale Assisted Living Center in Vermont

Cathy enjoys spending time with her Vermont family, which includes her daughter's black labrador retriever River