Paul Leroy Cathcart III's Obituary
Paul Leroy Cathcart III, age 52, of Sterling, Virginia, passed away on Sunday, December 4, 2024. Paul was born on July 4th, 1972, in Inchon, Korea. Paul was born to Rick Mark and Hwa Sook nee Lee and later adopted with his birth siblings by Paul and Betty Cathcart in 1983. Paul is survived by his sisters, Ann Chorman and Caroline Mark.
Paul had a magnetic personality and unforgettable presence. He was a proud Navy veteran, a brilliant travel agent, and a devoted connoisseur of food, fun, and friendship. Though life took detours, Paul ultimately found his calling in helping others discover the magic of travel. Owning his own travel agencies, starting with My Getaway Guru and then Never Travel Solo and Travwala, he turned his passion into a livelihood, living a life he once only imagined. By 2018, Paul had traveled to more than 100 countries and taken more than 77 cruises.
Paul’s adventurous heart was matched by his deep warmth. Despite a life touched by early hardship, he brought laughter and light to those around him. Paul was passionately dedicated to helping others celebrate and find joy. He generously shared his passion and expertise, mentoring countless others and helping launch careers in the travel industry. He made people feel welcome, celebrated, and seen — whether through planning a dream vacation, sharing a delicious meal, or simply showing up with joy. He will be warmly remembered for his love for people, fun, travel, and the joy he brought to others.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 12:00 PM on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Loudoun Funeral Chapel, 158 Catoctin Circle SE, Leesburg, Virginia. The family will receive friends beforehand from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. All are welcome to attend, share stories, and honor Paul’s life in the spirit he lived it — boldly, playfully, and with heart.
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