Sheriff Cathey was married to the late Anne Preslar Cathey, who passed away in December 2018.  He is the proud father of four children: Jacquelyn Adams (Jacob), Chandler Cathey (Kailee), Andrea Helms (Mike), and Shannon Preslar (Sarah). He also has 7 grandchildren and one great-grandson. Sheriff Cathey is the ultimate family man. He cherishes his time with his children and grandchildren, especially their camping trips to Ocean Lakes and the mountains of NC  and east Tennessee.