Longtime Rumsonite, Catherine Julia Altavilla, passed away peacefully, with her family by her side, on Tuesday, Oct. 28. She was 88.

Born and raised in Wilkes-Barre, PA, Catherine was a proud graduate of Hanover High School, Class of 1954.

“She served as a devoted secretary at B’nai Israel in Fair Haven, where she worked for 23 years. A woman of deep faith, Catherine was an active and cherished member of Holy Cross Church in Rumson, NJ. She participated faithfully in the parish prayer group for more than forty-five years, and served as a Eucharistic Minister, sharing her warmth and compassion with the community she loved.”

Loved ones of Catherine Altavilla in her obituary

Catherine was predeceased by: her beloved husband of 56 years, Anthony D. Altavilla, “Together, they shared a love of family, faith, and the New York Yankees — lifelong fans who rarely missed a game.”

She is survived by: her loving children and their spouses, Karen Altavilla, of Toms River, Susan and Joseph Concannon, of Oldsmar, FL., Anthony D. Altavilla Jr., of Carmel, IN, Catherine Ann and John Hickey, of Arlington, VA, and Mary Catherine and Patrick Guba, of Red Bank; her grandchildren, who will deeply miss her, Julia Concannon, Clare and Andre Baldarrago, Megan, Caroline, and Bridget Hickey, Tommy, and Anna Altavilla, and Brandon and Ryleigh Guba.

Family and friends celebrated Catherine’s life on Monday, Nov. 3. A christian mass will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 4, at 11 a.m. at Holy Cross Church, 30 Ward Ave., Rumson. Interment will be private.

— Edited obituary prepared by family via John E. Day Funeral Home

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