Catherine was born on July 1, 1950, to the late Willie Gray and Louise Rosebud Shields. She was the youngest of four children.
Catherine was preceded in death by: her father, Willie Gray and mother, Louise Rosebud Shields; daughter, Gayda Hull-Bully; brother, Charles Shields; and sister, Ruthie Collins.

Catherine was introduced to Christ at an early age. She joined Cade Chapel Missionary Baptist Church where she served as a faithful member until her health failed. Catherine was a member of the Circle of Gentleness; she also attended Sunday School Class 11A, sang in the choir, and worked with the kitchen staff. Catherine loved to attend church and showed so much love to each church member she met. She was educated in Jackson Public Schools where she graduated from Brinkley High School in the class of 1968. She later received her bachelor's degree from Jackson State University, where she majored in Elementary Education. Catherine was a retired educator where she taught many years at Walton Elementary
School. After retirement, she continued to work at Kroger for several years. Catherine loved to cook, and dance with her friends. She also had a beautiful singing voice. Family was very important to her. She loved her children and grandchildren. She took special time with them and loved on them as much as she could. Catherine loved children and they truly loved her. She leaves to cherish her memories: her Fiancé of 32 years, Dean Wadley of Jackson, Mississippi; one son, Darrell Hubb of Jackson, Mississippi; one brother, Isadore Shields of Houston, Texas; four grandsons, Calvin Hubb, Antoine Bully; LaDarius Dixon, and Darryl Wilburn; two granddaughters, Christina Wilburn and LaShundia Dixon; her best friends, Catherine Carter (who helped care for her), Diane Ephraim and Brenda Bullock; nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.