Obituary of Cathy Lee Bowlby

Cathy L. (née Slaughter) Bowlby, 77, of Kingwood Township, NJ, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 17, 2025. Born on November 11, 1947, in Irvington, NJ, she was the daughter of the late Travis Slaughter and Evelyn (née Henninger) Slaughter.

Cathy was raised in Irvington and graduated from Irvington High School. She made Kingwood Township her home, where she spent the next four decades building a life centered around family, service, and community. On August 18, 1973, she married the love of her life, Ralph Bowlby Sr. Together, they shared 51 years, raising four cherished children—Laura, John, Vanessa, and Ralph—who were the pride and joy of her heart.

Dedicated to helping others, Cathy spent over ten years as a bus driver for Hunterdon Central High School and proudly served as EMT Captain of the Kingwood Township Rescue Squad. Her commitment to the wellbeing of her neighbors was unwavering, and she found great purpose in serving her community.

Cathy had a passion for gardening and loved running her farm stand, sharing the fruits of her labor with friends and neighbors. She also enjoyed the thrill of Bingo nights and casino visits. But above all, Cathy was happiest when surrounded by her family. Her home was always filled with laughter, love, and the warmth of her nurturing spirit.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Ralph Bowlby Sr.; her loving children, Laura Peifer and her husband Jason, Vanessa Bachert, John Autenrieth and his wife Doris, and Ralph Bowlby Jr.; her adored grandchildren, Sara Peifer, Nicholas Peifer, Jody Autenrieth, Jack Autenrieth, Ashley Bachert, and Zachery Bachert; and her precious great-grandchildren, Isabella and Emery. Cathy also leaves behind her siblings, Theresa Dougherty and her husband Dennis, Linda Hansen and her husband Alan, Dale Slaughter, and John Slaughter and his wife Martha; and her loyal canine companion, Ginger.

She was predeceased by her beloved parents, brother, Travis Slaughter II and his wife Kathleen, and her dear son-in-law, Mark Bachert.

Cathy’s legacy is one of kindness, strength, and unwavering love for her family. Her vibrant spirit and generous heart will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Cathy’s memory may be made to the Kingwood Township Rescue Squad, honoring her life of service. Please click here to donate

Family and friends are invited to gather with Cathy’s family on Friday, April 25, 2025, from 10:00 AM until 1:00 PM, with a service beginning at 1:00 PM, led by Rev. Tex Culton. All services will be held at Martin Funeral Home, 1761 Rt. 31, Clinton, NJ 08809. Cremation will follow all services.