Catherine Mary Barbato (Hecker), 85, of Toms River, NJ, passed away, Tuesday, January 20, 2026, in her home, with her family.

Kathy was born on June 18, 1940, in Manhattan, NY, daughter of the late Aleda Hecker (Roberts), and raised by the late Leticia Roberts and the late Catherine (Kitty) Roberts, in City Island, NY. She cherished her role as the matriarch of the family, adoring her beloved husband of 65 years, her daughters, and her role as Gram/Nana to the grandchildren and great grandchildren, whom she would do anything for. Her door was always open, with her home serving as a place of gathering for the neighborhood kids growing up, hosting the family during holidays, or extending a place to stay for family in need. She had a giving soul, with a goal to live by the peace and serenity of water, enjoying many great summers at the family’s Brigantine beach house, on the lagoon in Lavallette, or the inlet at Island Heights, instilling her love of the shore into her family as well, but most of all, she enjoyed the time with her family. Her loving, caring, and calming presence will be dearly missed, but can still be felt, on a calm day spent by the water, through cherished memories, and the energy she’s left behind.

Kathy is proceeded in death by her beloved husband, Ralph Barbato, Jr., of Toms River, and is survived by her three daughters, Cathy Principe (Joe) of Whiting, NJ, Terri Budzek (Drew) of Point Pleasant, NJ, and Cindy Barbato of Toms River, NJ, five grandchildren, Amanda Konopko, Christopher Konopko, Nicole Ryan (James), Ryan Budzek, Christina Barbato, and great-grandchildren, Kaleigh Konopko and Jameson Ryan.

The family will be holding a private celebration of life memorial. In lieu of flowers, contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=9123756&fr_id=154020&pg=personal) are requested.