Catherine Julia Altavilla, 88, of Rumson, passed away peacefully Oct. 28, 2025, with her family by her side on.
Born Dec. 14, 1936, and raised in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, 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 for 23 years.
A woman of deep faith, Catherine was an active and cherished member of Holy Cross Church in Rumson. She participated faithfully in the parish prayer group for more than 45 years and served as a Eucharistic minister, sharing her warmth and compassion with the community she loved.
Catherine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Anthony D. Altavilla, to whom she was married for 56 wonderful years. Together, they shared a love of family, faith, and the New York Yankees; they were lifelong fans who rarely missed a game.
Catherine is survived by her loving children and their spouses, Karen Altavilla of Toms River, Susan and Joseph Concannon of Oldsmar, Florida, Anthony D. Altavilla Jr. of Carmel, Indiana, Catherine Ann and John Hickey of Arlington, Virginia, and Mary Catherine and Patrick Guba of Red Bank. She will be deeply missed by her treasured grandchildren, 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 Nov. 3 at the John E. Day Funeral Home, Red Bank. A Mass was held Nov. 4 at Holy Cross Church, Rumson. Interment was private.
The article originally appeared in the November 6 – 12, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
