Catherine "Cathi" Louise Overton Fischer's Obituary
Catherine Louise Overton Fischer passed away on June 4, 2026 in Gainesville, Florida at the age of 65 with her husband, brothers and family at her bedside. She was born in St. Petersburg, Florida on December 29, 1960. She was raised in St Petersburg, Florida and was a St Petersburg Debutante but she definitely was a lifelong Florida Gator who proudly called Gainesville home.
Cathi was predeceased in death by her parents, Justice Ben F Overton and Marilyn S Overton. She is survived by her loving husband Rodney Fischer, her brothers William H Overton (Dolores), and Robert M Overton. She is also survived by her nephews William E Overton (Alison), and Brian H Overton (Jacqueline) and six cousins.
Cathi was a lifelong educator and teacher. She received her BA in Education from the University of Florida and a MED in Educational Leadership from the University of South Florida. She began her education career in the Pinellas County Schools and taught second and fourth grade. After many years teaching in the classroom, she began to train, developed workshops, and mentored teachers. In 2014, she got her dream job of tutoring athletes at the University of Florida. She tutored athletes at all academic levels and from many different nationalities. She would help them, not only with their academic needs, but various needs of time management and strategy skills.
Her number one passion was to go with her husband Rodney to many of the University of Florida sporting events, both home and away. She especially loved to watch the students she tutored. She also had a passion for educating on backyard birding and feeding. For several years, she owned and managed a unique wild bird supply store, the Bird Barn in Highlands, North Carolina. Cathi was a dog lover, especially her beloved pets Clover and Willow.
Cathi loved life. She was a friend to everyone she met. Her smile and service to others was an example for everyone. She will be missed by her husband, her family, her friends and her students.
On Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 1 PM there will be a Celebration of Life for Cathi at Williams-Thomas Funeral Home, 404 N Main Street, Gainesville, Fl.
In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to the Cathi Overton Fischer Scholarship Fund at Titletown Gator Club, UF Alumni Association, PO Box 14425, Gainesville, Florida 32604.
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