Austin, TX, August 28, 2025
News Summary
The Austin community grieves the passing of Catherine Joan Dearing Day, a beloved alum of Austin High School, who contributed greatly to local activities and sports. Known for her spirited engagement, Catherine left a lasting impact on her family and community. Her legacy includes a commitment to education, family, and sports, making her a cherished figure in the lives of many. Catherine’s involvement with local organizations and her dedication to community service will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.
Austin Community Remembers Alum Catherine Joan Dearing Day
Austin, TX – The community of Austin is in mourning following the passing of Catherine Joan Dearing Day, an esteemed alum of Austin High School who died on August 22, 2025, at St. David’s Medical Center in Round Rock, Texas. She was 94 years old at the time of her passing.
Catherine was born on November 21, 1930, in McKinney, Texas, to Olin Clyde Dearing Sr. and Nova Lee Harvey Dearing. She had one older brother, Olin Clyde Dearing Jr. The Dearing family relocated to Austin in 1940, where Catherine attended Austin High School, participating actively in the school band.
After graduating from high school, Catherine pursued further education at the University of Texas, where she showed a passion for sports by joining the Strike & Spare bowling club. Events took a turn in her personal life when her father passed away from cancer in 1942, prompting her mother to start a career at the Brown Schools in Austin.
In June 1951, Catherine married Jackson Rawlins Day. The couple lived in Galveston while Jackson attended medical school and served in the United States Navy for four years. They eventually moved back to Austin in 1968 and raised their four children: Lisa Ann (1955), Brian Franklin (1957), John Rawlins (1961), and Mary Catherine (1963).
Catherine took part in numerous community activities in Austin and was known for her active participation in local bowling leagues at Dart Bowl and Highland Lanes, continuing this passion well into her 80s. Additionally, she engaged in regular Mah Jongg games and showed great enthusiasm for University of Texas sports, supporting teams across football, basketball, volleyball, baseball, and softball.
Her faith was a significant part of her life as she was an active member of St. John’s United Methodist Church. Catherine was also involved in various organizations; she was a member of Zonta International and participated in the Rebecca Boyce Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), being a charter member of the Balcones Chapter.
Catherine was predeceased by her parents, brother, husband, daughter Lisa Day Jones, and grandson Wyatt Day. She is survived by her sons Brian (and wife Lori) and John (and wife Gail), her daughter Mary, son-in-law Curtis Jones, ten grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and several nieces and a nephew.
The Austin community reflects on Catherine’s rich legacy — one defined by her commitment to family, education, and her unwavering support for local programs and organizations. As the days pass, she will be remembered not only as a dedicated mother and grandmother but also as a spirited community member who made lasting contributions to the lives of those around her.
About Catherine Joan Dearing Day
- Born: November 21, 1930
- Died: August 22, 2025
- High School: Austin High School
- University: University of Texas
- Family: Married to Jackson Rawlins Day, 4 children, 10 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren
- Affiliations: St. John’s United Methodist Church, Zonta International, DAR
Legacy and Impact
Throughout her life, Catherine was known for her deep connections to her family, educational pursuits, and strong engagement with local communities and sports. Her passing has left a profound void that will be felt by many, as she was a cornerstone of her family and a beloved figure in the wider Austin area.
FAQ Section
What was Catherine’s role in her community?
Catherine was actively involved in community activities, participating in bowling leagues and supporting sports events at the University of Texas.
When did Catherine Joan Dearing Day pass away?
Catherine passed away on August 22, 2025.
How many children did Catherine have?
Catherine had four children: Lisa Ann, Brian Franklin, John Rawlins, and Mary Catherine.
What organizations was Catherine affiliated with?
Catherine was affiliated with Zonta International and was part of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and St. John’s United Methodist Church.
Where was Catherine originally from?
Catherine was born in McKinney, Texas, but moved to Austin with her family in 1940.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Catherine Joan Dearing Day |
| Birthdate | November 21, 1930 |
| Death Date | August 22, 2025 |
| Education | Austin High School, University of Texas |
| Children | 4 (Lisa Ann, Brian Franklin, John Rawlins, Mary Catherine) |
| Key Activities | Bowling, supporting sports, community service |
| Affiliations | Zonta International, DAR, St. John’s UMC |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Catherine Day
- Wikipedia: Austin, Texas
- Dignity Memorial: Olin Dearing
- Google Search: Catherine Joan Dearing Day
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Daughters of the American Revolution
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