Catherine passed away on December 23, 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer, with her husband Daniel and her dog Buddy at her side. "Cat" was born in New Bedford on October 15, 1962.

Cat graduated from Regis College in 1983, a psychology major, and soon began working for the Massachusetts Housing Courts and rose to the level of Assistant Chief for housing courts in Southeastern Massachusetts. She was an avid tennis player and golfer and enjoyed sailing with her husband in the summer and wintering in Naples, Florida.

Cat and Dan enjoyed each other for 29 years. She was a devoted mother to her daughters, Victoria Hayes and Amanda L'Etoile, both of New Bedford. She had a special relationship with her grandson, Benjamin Hayes, and adored him.

Cat is survived by her parents Joseph and Catherine Finnerty of New Bedford, her brother Judge Kevin Finnerty and wife Mary Beth of New Bedford, brother Sean Finnerty and wife Debbie of Chatham, brother Sean Finnerty and wife Melina of Easton, and sister Deidre Poente of New Bedford, along with many nieces and nephews.

A private ceremony will be held at the request of Cat.