Ralph "Gene" Eugene Cato, Jr.

Mr. Ralph Eugene “Gene” Cato, Jr., 69, widower of Marilyn S. Cato, loving father to many, died Tuesday, July 28, 2020 in Beaufort Memorial Hospital. Mr. Cato was born in Augusta, GA in 1951. He is the son of the late Ralph E. Cato, Sr. and Mary Ellen Corley Cato of Aiken, SC. HISTORY…………………………. Gene spent much of his early life in his hometown of Aiken, SC. He graduated from Aiken High School in 1969, and many of his classmates remain as dear friends today. Gene pursued and received his degree from The University of South Carolina in the field of Early Childhood Education & Social Work. Shortly after earning his degree, He and Marilyn were married in 1974 in Anderson, SC and were married 38 years until Marilyn’s passing. Gene and Marilyn relocated to Beaufort, SC in 1982, where Gene became the Director of Child Development at the Baptist Church of Beaufort. Gene was a dedicated advocate for kids with disabilities. He worked tirelessly to mainstream special needs children in public schools. He wasn’t just a voice for children, but led by personal example as He and Marilyn welcomed many into their home. He loved all types of music, was passionate about his Mexican food, and often indulged in a good margarita or four. He was affectionately known as “Daddy Gene” by many extended friends and family. Gene and Marilyn Cato had a large family, consisting of two sons, Joseph Cato and Joshua Cato (husband to Melinda Cato). Gene had three children by marriage; sons James Wilder (husband to Jennifer Wilder), Gary Wilder, and daughter Karen Jenkins (wife to Wade Jenkins). He had three sons welcomed by adoption into the family. They are; Justin “JJ” Jones, Jason DesChamps, and the late Adrian “Bubba” Burns. Surviving Gene is one brother, Chucky Cato; two sisters, Vera Cato Evans and Cynthia Cato Whitt; 13 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren . Gene has one surviving brother-in-law, Thomas Stanfield, and three sisters-in law: Susan, Mary, and Patricia Stanfield. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to CAPA (Child Abuse Prevention Association) in Beaufort, SC. Simplicity - Lowcountry Cremation & Burial is working with the family. At this time, a celebration of life and graveside service will be held when social distancing limitations can be eased.