On May 8, 2025, Françoise Laborde paid a heartfelt tribute to her late sister, Catherine Laborde, on what would have been Catherine's 74th birthday. The former weather presenter, known for her long tenure on TF1, passed away on January 28, 2025, after a prolonged battle with Lewy body dementia, a debilitating condition that combines aspects of both Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
In an emotional post on Instagram, Françoise Laborde shared cherished memories of Catherine, reflecting on their bond and the love of family. "Today is your birthday. You would have been 74 years old. You are always in our hearts. With your daughters Gabrièle and Pia, with your older sister Geneviève… with all the family that loves you. We miss you," she wrote, accompanied by touching photographs showcasing their sisterly connection.
These images included a nostalgic snapshot of the two sisters together and a family portrait featuring Catherine’s daughters, Gabrièle and Pia, who were born from her relationship with her husband, Jimmy. Françoise also highlighted a tribute cover from Paris Match honoring her sister’s legacy.
Catherine Laborde's funeral took place on February 6, 2025, at the Église Saint-Roch in Paris, where family and friends gathered to pay their respects. The ceremony was attended by many notable figures from French media, including her colleagues from TF1, such as Anne-Claire Coudray, Sébastien Folin, and Claire Chazal. The sense of loss was palpable as many shared their memories and grief over the passing of a beloved figure.
Françoise Laborde recalled the difficult moments leading up to Catherine's death, stating that she had been surrounded by loved ones in her final days. Catherine had chosen to spend her last moments in her home on the Île d'Yeu, a serene island in the Gulf of Biscay, where she had sought comfort and peace away from the hustle and bustle of Paris.
In a poignant reflection, Françoise shared, "I went to see her in her house on the Île d'Yeu with my sister Geneviève. We spent time with her, shared laughter, and talked about our childhood, our parents. She was happy." This sentiment underscores the loving environment Catherine had created in her final days, surrounded by family.
Catherine Laborde had made a conscious decision to move to her coastal home on the Île d'Yeu a few years prior, seeking tranquility in the face of her illness. "My husband and I have just bought a house by the sea on the Île d'Yeu. We are half there, half in Paris. I have spent many hours cleaning the borders where little purple flowers form a beautiful pattern. I also take care of my cat," she had shared in a 2018 interview with Le Parisien.
As her health declined, Catherine withdrew from public life, but she was not alone. Françoise revealed that a dedicated caregiver named Alexandra was also present to assist Catherine, ensuring that her remaining days were as comfortable as possible. "She was surrounded by a wonderful young woman who took care of her," Françoise stated in a 2024 interview.
In the wake of her sister's death, Françoise Laborde's tribute serves as a reminder of the profound impact Catherine had on her family and the public. Her legacy as a beloved weather presenter on TF1, where she had built a career that spanned decades, will not be forgotten. Fans and colleagues alike remember her not only for her professional accomplishments but also for her warmth and resilience.
Catherine Laborde's journey through illness was a testament to her strength. Despite the challenges posed by Lewy body dementia, she maintained a spirit of dignity and grace, choosing to spend her last days in a place that held deep personal significance. The island, known for its beauty and tranquility, provided a fitting backdrop for her final chapter.
As Françoise Laborde continues to honor her sister's memory, the love shared among family members remains a central theme. Catherine's daughters, Gabrièle and Pia, are now left with the memories of their mother, who was not only a prominent figure in the public eye but also a cherished parent.
The emotional toll of losing a loved one is ever-present, especially on significant dates like birthdays. Françoise's tribute on May 8 serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring nature of love and memory, even in the face of loss. The family continues to navigate their grief while celebrating the life of a remarkable woman who touched many lives.
In a world where the spotlight can often overshadow personal struggles, Catherine Laborde's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, family, and the human connection. As her loved ones reflect on her life, they carry forward her legacy, ensuring that her spirit lives on in their hearts and memories.
