As sad as Catherine's death is, it might be somewhat of a blessing that she was not alive to see the execution of her beloved husband, Thomas Seymour, when he was beheaded on charges of treason in March 1549. At this time, the infant Mary was sent to live with a close friend of Catherine's, the Dowager Duchess of Suffolk Catherine Willoughby (Brandon). It is unknown for sure whether or not Mary Seymour lived past childhood.
Catherine was buried at her home at Sudeley Castle, and in 1782 her tomb was stumbled upon by a man named John Locust. It was reported that, opening opening her tomb, her flesh was still white and moist, and her body was in relatively good condition after 234 years! He took a few pieces of her hair and then left her peacefully once again.
This is an exciting year for Sudeley Castle, because they are celebrating the Catherine Parr Quincentenary Festival! A mock funeral will be held on 9 September, along with various other events which have been taking place all Summer. You can also see a very life-like display of Catherine Parr during her lying-in in the Sudeley chapel, while Lady Jane Grey looks on as her chief mourner.
If any of my readers get a chance to attend any of the Catherine Parr events at Sudeley, please let me know how they are!