Cathy Ann (Eby) Matchett of Phoenix, AZ

Cathy Ann Eby was born April 4, 1950, in Coulee Dam, Washington, to Ray and Ruth Eby (née Babler), who both worked at the Dam. One of four children, she spent most of her youth in Ephrata. In 1973, she married Bob Matchett, also of Ephrata, and together they had three daughters.

Cathy graduated from Ephrata High School in 1968 and furthered her education at Eastern Washington University, where she double majored in French and Russian. She dedicated much of her life to education and public service, touching many lives as a high school language teacher both before and after her career as a mine inspector and special investigator with the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA).

Known for her friendly and generous spirit, Cathy was a beacon of love and independence, always ready to engage in conversation with anyone she met. Her hobbies included quilting, crafting, antiquing and traveling, each reflecting her vibrant and inquisitive nature. She was an active member of her church in Phoenix, where she participated in the knitting group. Her love of Jesus was her guiding light.

Cathy is survived by her daughters, Leanna Matchett Archambault, Maureen Stoll (Doug) and Emily Guadamuz (Jonny); grandchildren Brian and Sarah Archambault, Benjamin, Caleb and Timothy Guadamuz, and Carly, Grace and Janelle Stoll; her sister, Susan Sears; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Matchett; her mother and father; her brothers, Bob and Michael Eby; and her brother-in-law, Stephen Sears.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Nicoles Funeral Home in Ephrata, with inurnment to follow at Valley View Cemetery in Soap Lake.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Desert Botanical Garden or a charity of your choice.