Cathleen Foley

Cathleen R. Foley, 74, of Lake Wales, Florida left us peacefully on August 8, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. She was a devoted mother to Christine Smiley and a cherished Grandmother to Cassady and Jaxson Smiley, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and a deep appreciation for life.   

Born November 23, 1949, Cathleen grew up in Churchville, NY and later moved to Spencerport, NY where she started a family. Marked by a lifelong commitment to learning and helping others, in 1988 she started her career as a Recreational Therapist at Rochester Area Multiple Scoliosis bringing joy and improvement to the lives of many. In 1997 she moved to the Crystal River, FL area where she changed career paths and became a Massage Therapist using her healing touch to provide comfort and care to those in need. Later moving to Lake Wales, FL to be closer to Family.  

A lover of nature, Cathleen was a free spirit who embraced life with a sense of adventure. She found joy in the simple pleasures, whether it was enjoying the beauty of the outdoors, curling up with a good book, or spending precious moments with her grandchildren. She shared her love for all living things and her deep connection to nature with her family. Her love for life was infectious, and her memory will forever inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. She was known for her unwavering generosity, always giving to charities and lending a helping hand to those in need. She had a remarkable ability to make friends wherever she went, and her warm, loving spirit left a lasting impression on everyone she met. 

Cathleen is survived by her daughter, Christine Smiley; grandchildren, Cassady and Jaxson Smiley; and her brothers, Jim (Debbie) Foley and Scott (Susan) Foley; and their children.  She is preceded in death by her parents, Lester and Ruth Foley; her son, Mark Woodcook and life partner, Bill Bowers.  

Cathleen will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were touched by her kindness. Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing that she is now at peace. Her legacy of love, generosity, and adventurous spirit will live on in our hearts forever.