Cathleen Leigh Howard

Cathleen Leigh Howard, 84, of Tucson, Arizona passed away on November 11, 2025. Cathleen, also known as Cathy, Cassie and Cactus Cathy was born in St. Louis, Missouri, March 1, 1941 to John Lee and Norah Elizabeth (Conklin) Tobin.

Cathy obtained a Master’s degree in English and Communications, which helped guide her in future endeavors. She worked various jobs including JCPenney and as a movie critic before finding a career in the Insurance industry until her retirement. Retirement didn’t last long for Cathy. In Tucson she pursued the night life as a DJ for KXCI where she was known as Cactus Cathy. She found joy in giving back by volunteering with Humane Borders. Cathy left Tucson for several years to teach ESL in Mexico and Peru. It was this work where she met friends and fellow teachers from around the world.

Besides her parents, Cathy is preceded in death by her husband Bill Howard, sister Patricia Lewis, and brother John Tobin.

Cathy is survived by her daughters, Valerie Pace (David), Kristin Collins (Erin), grandchildren, Virginia Metzler (Eric), Henry Pace, Kailey Collins, Grace Collins, Amzi Collins, Zoey Hoffman (Jasper), Charity Collins, Ezra Collins, and Zadok Collins. She is survived by great grandchildren, Asher and Elk, and many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her first husband, Donald Crabill.

The family is thankful for Cathy’s friend, Shelley Tait for being by her side and providing comfort to her at Banner Hospital.

In keeping with her wish for simplicity, no formal funeral service will be held. Friends and family throughout will be celebrating her life privately.

Cathy enjoyed spreading love and kindness. In lieu of donations to a specific charity, we welcome you to spread acts of love and kindness, whether volunteering, donating, or simply making someone smile.