VIRGINIA BEACH – Helen Katz Sterling passed away peacefully at her home on October 27, after a long and beautiful life. She was 95.
Helen was born in Lithuania on February 19, 1928, the youngest of five children of Aaron and Esther Katz. The family moved to Portsmouth, Va., in 1939, just prior to the start of WWII.
Helen graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School and attended The Norfolk Division of the College of William and Mary. She always cherished the friends and relationships she made in those early years in Portsmouth. She married Cantor Harry Sterling in 1958 before starting a family in Utah. Daughter Debbie and son David were born in Salt Lake City prior to moving to Sioux City, Ia. The Sterlings were an integral part of the Sioux City Jewish community and thoroughly enjoyed their years there. They remained in Sioux City until moving back to Virginia in 1985, to be closer to Helen’s family.
Helen was very active in Jewish organizations and causes, including Congregation Beth El, Beth El Sisterhood, and was a lifetime member of Hadassah. Helen worked for Congregation Beth El and previously worked for the Midwest Region of United Synagogue of America.
Throughout her life, Helen was extremely close to her wonderful siblings, who all preceded her in death: Bernard Katz, Sol Katz, Irene Janow, and Herbert Katz. Helen was the last remaining Katz family member who made the journey from Lithuania to Virginia in the early part of the 20th century. Her husband, Harry, passed away in 2015. Helen is survived by her children, Debbie and David.
Funeral services were held at Forest Lawn Cemetery.
H.D. Oliver. The family requests that, if desired, contributions may be made to Congregation Beth El or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.hdoliver.com.