01/01/2026
Celebration of Life for Our Beloved Father
It is with both sorrow for our loss and joy for his eternal reward that we announce the passing of Alfred Francis Katz Jr., of Pearisburg, Virginia, who passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, at the age of 85. He left this world as he lived it—on his own terms. Alfred was a devoted member of his community and will be remembered for his enthusiasm and unwavering commitment to serving others.
Born on April 27, 1940, in New York City, Alfred—known to family as Al or “Kit”—was the son of Alfred F. Katz Sr. and Geraldine Patricia O’Sullivan Katz. He was a graduate of Pace University and proudly served in the United States Army as a Military Police officer from 1959 to 1961. Alfred was a faithful member of Holy Family Catholic Church and retired from Celanese in 2002 after 26 years of dedicated service.
Alfred was actively involved in the Town of Pearisburg and took great pride in giving back. Over the years, he was active in the Chamber of Commerce, served as President of the Merchants Association, helped organize the town’s annual Festival Around Town, and participated in Relay for Life. His dedication and leadership played an important role in strengthening the sense of community in Pearisburg. During retirement, he taught classes at New River Community College in Dublin, Virginia, and remained busy with Lions Club events.
One of Alfred’s greatest passions was the Pearisburg Lions Club, which he dearly loved. He devoted countless hours of time and energy to the Lions Club and its mission of service, always willing to lend a helping hand wherever it was needed. He received numerous awards and accolades for his work, but he always felt the work itself was reward enough. Alfred and his wife Mary believed deeply in helping others.
In his free time, Alfred enjoyed cooking. In addition to his civic involvement, he also enjoyed acting with the Little Giles Theatre and found great joy in the performing arts. One of his proudest moments was appearing in the film Wish You Well, which was filmed in Giles County.
Alfred was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. One of his greatest joys was preparing delicious meals for his loved ones and upholding cherished family traditions. To his children, he was known for his wisdom, kindness, dedication, and wry humor. He always made time to talk—whether about cooking or simply to lend an ear and offer advice about work and life. He was affectionately known as “Opa” to his six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary J. Katz, and his brother, Michael K. Katz. He is survived by his brother Peter R. Katz (Donna Katz) of Brick Township, New Jersey.
His precious memory will forever be cherished by his children: Kenneth R. Katz (Donna T. Katz) of Goldbond, Virginia; Lisa K. Martin (David E. Martin) of Pearisburg, Virginia; and Frank J. Katz (Cordairo A. Whitworth) of Kernersville, North Carolina. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Karen K. Braiman (Alain Braiman), Danielle M. Collins (Chris Collins), Heather K. Ferrara (David Ferrara), Michele M. Eppling (Andrew Eppling), Kaitlyn K. Gueta (Alex Gueta), and Matthew R, Martin; and his great-grandchildren: Brantley and Vanessa Ferrara, Milo and Daisy Gueta, Elizabeth and Isabella Braiman, and Banks and Brewer Eppling. He is further survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who loved him deeply.
A Celebration of Al’s life will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at the Givens Funeral Home in Pearisburg, VA., from 5 – 7pm. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to holy Family Catholic Church in care of Justice and Peace Committee Pearisburg in Alfred F. Katz, Jr.’s honor.
