Catherine Mary Annese, age 70, passed away suddenly on Sunday, April 12, 2026.

Cathi began her lifelong dedication to working with children and nature at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden in 1984, where she served as manager of the Children’s Garden. She was at the helm of many programs and mentored countless children, leaving a lasting impact on generations of young people.

Cathi shared many happy years with her beloved spouse, Sandy Muller, who predeceased her. Together, they built a life in Cairo on their cherished farm, Flora and Fauna, where they raised horses, goats, turkeys, and ducks, reflecting Cathi’s deep love of animals.

She was devoted to her work with the Flora and Fauna 4-H Club and was actively involved with Cornell Cooperative Extension. Cathi was a dedicated mentor to many children, guiding and supporting them from youth into adulthood. She was deeply loved and respected by all who had the privilege of knowing her. The Flora and Fauna 4-H Club will continue on in her legacy.

Cathi also worked for many years at Karen’s Flower Shoppe in Cairo, a place she lovingly called her “happy place.”

Cathi was a cherished member of the Cornell Cooperative Extension family and a steadfast advocate for youth and community. She served with distinction through several terms on the Board of Directors, including as Board President from 2017 to 2019.

Above all, Cathi’s heart belonged to 4‑H. For 28 years, she devoted herself as a leader of the Flora & Fauna 4‑H Club, guiding generations of young people with patience, encouragement, and enthusiasm. Each year, she and her spouse Sandy Muller, could be found at the Greene County Youth Fair, proudly cheering on their club members through the animal shows and celebrating their achievements.

Cathi also chaperoned countless youth trips to Cornell University, most notably 4‑H Career Explorations, where she helped open doors to new interests, opportunities, and future career pathways. Through her unwavering dedication, Cathi made a lasting difference in the lives of many and strengthened the fabric of her community.

She found great joy in caring for her animals, mentoring children, and spending time with family and friends. Her faithful puppy, Brucie, was a constant source of companionship and love.

Cathi will be deeply missed by her family, her 4-H community, and the many friends whose lives she touched. Her kindness, strength, and generous spirit will be remembered always. She is survived by her loving sister, Vera; her brother-in-law, Charles; and her cherished nieces and nephews: Chuck Santarelli and his wife Tina, Jeannine Santarelli and her husband Dan Hanwacker, Nicholas Santarelli and his wife Marybeth, along with six beloved great-nieces and nephews. She is also survived by many dear friends and the countless 4-H children whose lives she touched. Cathi was also deeply loved by the Muller family, especially Patricia and Eric Muller, and her nephews Christian and Philip Muller.

In lieu of flowers, Cathi’s family kindly requests that donations be made to Cornell Cooperative Extension Agroforestry Resource Center, 6055 Route 23, Acra, NY 12405 in support of the 4‑H Youth Development Program, continuing the work that meant so much to her.

Care has been entrusted to AJ Cunningham Funeral Home. Condolences may be left at www.ajcunninghamfh.com. Services will be held on Saturday, April 25, at Resurrection Lutheran Church, 186 Main Street, Cairo, NY 12413. Visitation will be from 2-3 p.m., with the service to follow from 3-4 p.m. Food and refreshments will be served immediately following the service.