Greta Katz Larrison

Greta Lois Pavny Katz Larrison passed away on August 18, 2025, at the age of 96½. Born on April 30, 1929, in Cleveland, Ohio, she was the beloved daughter of Jack and Blanche Pavny and one of four sisters.

Greta leaves behind five devoted children, the joy and pride of her life: Gary (Gregg Hennan) Katz, Bruce (Mary Jo) Katz, Neil (Donna) Katz, Lisa (Tom) Reichert, and Bryan (Terrie) Katz. Her love only deepened with each generation—she was the proud grandmother of 12 and the adoring great-grandmother of 24. She was also a cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews. Greta was preceded in death by her sister Rhoda Boardman and is survived by her sisters Grace Abrams and Rita (Marvin) Lockman.

Greta is also survived by her stepchildren Jodi (Dr. Jed) Rosen, and Dr. Wayne (Dr. Melanie Waynik) Larrison.

Her first husband, Donald H. Katz, passed away in 1968, a life cut too short. Later, she married David H. Larrison, and together they moved to Miami to raise their blended family, sharing many happy years until his passing in 1992. Greta later found love and companionship with Sam Malkin, with whom she traveled the world until his passing 17 years ago.

In Cleveland, Greta was active in her children’s schools, serving on PTAs, and was involved in the HBSU Ladies Auxiliary, following in her father’s footsteps. After Donald’s passing, she began a 23-year career with Equifax Services in Cleveland and Miami, where she made many lifelong friends.

In retirement, Greta gave generously of her time. She volunteered as a costume designer for the Temple Zion Theater Guild and at Miami Children’s Hospital, where she lovingly held and comforted babies in the NICU. A longtime member of Temple Beth Or, she wore many hats—serving on the temple board, chairing Oneg, and acting as Recording Secretary. Temple and Judaism were truly at the center of her life.

Greta loved theater in all its forms: volunteering with productions at Temple Zion, attending Broadway shows in New York or Miami, or delighting in a Purim schpiel at Temple Beth Am. At home, she enjoyed tending her garden on Sunday mornings with music playing in the background. She also loved bridge and mahjong, hobbies she kept up well into her later years.

Her life was defined by resilience, devotion to family, service to community, and a spirit that touched everyone she met. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Temple Beth Am in Greta’s memory.

A private burial will be held. Family and friends are invited to a memorial service on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Mt. Nebo (Kendall), 5900 SW 77th Ave., Miami, FL 33143.