Catherine J. Alston, a devoted matriarch, protector, and guiding force for her family, passed away on April 5, 2026.
Born on June 21, 1943, in Augusta, Georgia, Catherine was known for her strong personality, unwavering determination, and deep-rooted commitment to those she loved. She was a woman who spoke her mind, stood firm in her beliefs, and faced life's challenges with resilience and courage.

Above all, Catherine's greatest pride and purpose was her family. She was the backbone and steady presence that held generations together, offering wisdom, strength, and unconditional love. Whether through her words, her actions, or simply her presence, she made it clear that family always came first.

Catherine was also known for her dedication to her career in the food service industry, where she worked with various agencies. Her strong leadership and no-nonsense approach earned her both respect and admiration. She had a remarkable ability to get things done while inspiring others to rise to their very best. Catherine was a faithful member of Saint Paul's Baptist Church; she loved listening to her Pastor Lance Watson preach the word of God. Catherine was also an avid crafter, she especially enjoyed watching YouTube channels on creating Dollar Tree DIYs and creating personalized cards for family and friends.

She is survived by her loving children, Phyllis Y. Blair (Johnny), Sonya N. Grant (Charles), Donna E. Alston, Tracey L. Alston and Brae R. Bryant (Carlton); her cherished grandchildren, Ashiya Alston, Keshawn Pride, Jamaal Alston, Chanel Pride, Angelica Alston, Corey Alston, Troy Malone, Jeannette Alston, Kameron Bryant and Keaton Bryant; her great grandchildren, Terry Pride, Emory Pride, Jelani Douglas, Janiyah Jackson, Layla Vega, Briley Pride, Sydney Alston, Journee Whitaker and Talia Alston; a beloved nephew, Tyrone Small; nieces, Anita Willingham (Lamar) and Ebony Price; a beloved childhood friend, Pauline Williams; and a wide circle of extended family and friends who will forever carry her lessons and love with them.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Annie Mae Small; father, Marshall Blair; husband, James Alston, Jr.; daughter, Karen Alston-Malone; a son-in-love, Jefferson Bostick; brothers, Robert Lee Small and Charles Small; sister, Willie Mae Small; and a longtime personal friend, Herbert Pope.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Linda Rook, Dianna Barnes, and Amedisys for the compassion, kindness, and loving care they so generously gave to our beloved matriarch.

Catherine leaves behind a legacy of strength, loyalty, and fierce love. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the family she built, protected, and cherished.

Services will be held 1:00 P.M., Monday, April 20, 2026, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Eric Evans, eulogist. The interment to follow at Dinwiddie Memorial Park.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/5881381?fl=so&fe=fs