Maria Rhodora “Dory” Catahan Morrison, 56, of Virginia Beach left this world and entered our hearts on Tuesday, October 17, 2023.
Dory was born in Bulacan, Philippines to parents Rodolfo Sr. and Rosie Catahan. With her dad serving in the U.S. Navy, she grew up around the world. From Guam to Key West and Europe to Alaska, her smile lit up everywhere she went. Her father retired in Virginia Beach where the family later settled. She attended Old Dominion University, where she was an active member of Alpha Xi Delta and graduated with honors with a Bachelors of Science in Business. Married in 1999, Dory and Shane shared nearly 25 beautiful years together.
Dory created family everywhere she went, including at her workplace. From investment banker to working for nonprofits, she culminated her professional experiences by proudly serving as the Senior Donor Relations Officer at WHRO Public Media for more than 12 years. Her contributions to the community are immeasurable. To name a few, she volunteered with the Kempsville Woman’s Club and served as a member of the Board of Directors for the DEIB Committee, the Norfolk Sister Cities, and the Women’s Auxiliary Knights of Columbus.
Of all her accomplishments, her proudest was being the best mom to Claire Rose, loving her with all her heart.
Dory was kind and bright; a true light to the world. She was caring, thoughtful, positive, and always selfless with her love. Her innate ability to see the best in people left an everlasting mark in their hearts. The most important thing to her was being surrounded by the love of her family and friends.
She is dearly missed by her family: husband Shane, daughter Claire Rose, mother Rosie, father Rodolfo Sr. [predeceased], brother Rudy Jr. (Susan, Rossanna, Lilly, Alex, Mia), brother Rodel (Sheika, Bryce, Jordan, Adrianna), brother Dennis (Ann, Justin, Jayden), sister Rosita (Brooke, Savannah Rose), countless uncles, aunties, cousins, and friends.
Her spirit was so bright, there is no place her light doesn’t continue to shine.
Dory, we miss you and we love you so very much.
A service will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, October 26 at the Church of the Ascension (4853 Princess Anne Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23462). A reception will take place following the service at the banquet hall.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in honor of Dory to one of her favorite charities listed below:
