Jody Ellen Elston Katz of Groton passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 16 surrounded by her family after a long battle with cancer. She was 67 years old. The oldest daughter of Roslyn and Leon Elston, Jody grew up in Elmwood and attended graduate school at Penn State University, where she met her husband of more than 40 years, Merrill Katz. Jody is survived by her husband (Merrill), her mother (Roslyn), her sister (Sari Trzepacz), and a son, daughter, and son-in-law (Mark Katz; Jamie Katz Court & Barnaby Court).

Jody and Merrill built their family and laid down roots in Portage, Michigan. Jody was an active member at Temple B’nei Israel and various community education programs. She and Merrill relocated to Groton in 2007 and retired a few years later. Jody was again involved in several area synagogues and participated in and developed various community education and outreach programs.

She is lovingly remembered by family and friends for her kindness, compassion, her giving spirit, and her love of music and teaching. There will be a private service for the family, followed by visitation for family and friends at the family’s home in Groton at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 20. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jody’s honor to either the Backus Hospital Oncology Unit or to The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.