Catherine Melo Worden

Catherine Melo Worden was born February 14, 1957 to Louie and Carolyn Melo. She grew up in San Jose, CA, and upon graduating college followed in her father's footsteps and began her career as a teacher. Known affectionately by her students as the "Mole Queen," Catherine taught Chemistry at Santa Teresa high school for over three decades. On more than one occasion she was known to have taught Chemistry to the children of her former students. Several years throughout her career she earned the teacher of the year award for East Side Union High School District, and was well respected by faculty and students alike. Throughout her long and storied career, she went above and beyond to have a deeper impact on her students than just high school chemistry. Catherine often provided a home away from home for kids in her classroom and would lend not only a good ear, but also good advice for any that needed it. While teaching and mentoring was certainly her greatest passion, her greatest love would be her family. She married Charles Ronald Worden in 1980 and they adopted three children soon after. The boys Bryn Scott and Kyle Louis kept the family busy, active in sports and scouting. The daughter Caitlin Janeen was returned to her biological family early in her life, but Catherine reconnected with her in her later years and the two formed a strong bond. The family loved to vacation together, visiting National Parks and exploring different States. Other hobbies for Catherine included going for walks, reading books, and keeping up with the life accomplishments of her students and children. She passed away at sixty-five years on December 14, 2022 surrounded by some of her dearest friends and family. She is survived by her husband and children, as well as her brother and his family.