Katherine Virginia Katz

Katherine Virginia “Kathy” Katz, of Discovery Bay, California, left this world far too soon on September 15, 2025, alongside her partner, Douglas ‘Doug’ Clifton. She was born on August 14, 1955, in Brooklyn, New York, and carried the strength, resilience, and unmistakable energy of her hometown with her throughout her life.

Kathy was passionate, deeply devoted, sharp-witted, and unapologetically honest. She made an impact wherever she went. As a mother, partner, sister, nurse, and friend, she built a life rooted in compassion, humor, determination, and loyalty to the people she cared about most.

For more than five decades, Kathy committed herself to the nursing profession. Beginning her career in the mid-1970s, she grew into not only a highly skilled Registered Nurse but also a respected leader and mentor. She earned her Master’s degree in Nursing, served in director-level positions, and became known for her clinical expertise, steady judgment, and tireless advocacy for patients and colleagues. Her perspective was sought after not only because of her medical knowledge, but because she spoke with clarity and conviction shaped by lived experience.

Kathy believed strongly in dignity, equality, and service beyond the hospital walls. She instilled those principles in her son by example, bringing Evan to volunteer at soup kitchens every Thanksgiving and showing him that compassion is something you practice, not just something you talk about.

Those who knew Kathy remember her straightforward nature and quick humor. She had a signature look that needed no words, especially when she knew someone was not being truthful. Her oversized Ray-Ban glasses became part of her trademark presence. She had a way of delivering hard truths with warmth, making people laugh while keeping them grounded.

Life outside of work was just as full. Kathy loved traveling to New York to visit Evan, spending holidays surrounded by family, and rarely sitting still for long. She was a loyal New York Rangers and Yankees fan, loved classic rock, and found joy in live music, festivals, cooking, and bringing people together around a table.

When she moved to California in 2019, she quickly immersed herself in the Grateful Dead community that had long been meaningful to Doug. What began as shared shows and gatherings soon became a network of close friendships and unforgettable experiences. The music, the camaraderie, and the spirit of that community became an important and joyful chapter of her life. She embraced it wholeheartedly and formed connections that stretched far beyond state lines.

Above all else, Kathy was a mother. Evan was the heart of her world, the person she loved most, and the one she was proudest of. She carried that love in everything she did, and anyone who heard her speak about her son could feel the light in her voice. Her bond with him was unshakable, and her love will remain with him always. She also cherished Cooper, Evan’s dog and her beloved “granddog,” who brought her constant joy.

Retirement was brief. After stepping away from nursing for only two months, she returned to work during the COVID pandemic, answering the call with the same resolve that had defined her entire career. Slowing down simply was not in her nature.

Kathy was preceded in death by her mother, Marie Domini; her stepfather, Al Domini; and her father, John Velez.

She is survived by her son, Evan Katz; her brother, John Gregory Velez; her sisters, Donna Gundlach, Joni Roberts, and Lori Kotula; her former husband of 24 years, Harvey Katz; and a wide circle of friends, colleagues, fellow music lovers, and extended family whose lives were enriched by knowing her.

Kathy lived boldly and loved fiercely. She stood up for what she believed in, protected the people she cared about, and never softened her truth. Though she and Doug departed this world together, the laughter, stories, music, and strength they shared will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who carry their memory forward.