Kathryn J. Frey, 97

January 01, 2026

Kathryn J. Frey, 97, of Lancaster, PA, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at Homestead Village. Born in Pittsburgh, PA, she was the daughter of the late Catherine (O’Connor) and William L. Jacob. Kathryn was the beloved wife of the late Charles A. Frey, Sr. with whom she shared more than 65 years of devoted marriage.

A woman of deep faith, compassion, and purpose, Kathryn was a proud 1946 graduate of Mount Mercy Academy and earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Duquesne University in 1950. Her love of learning and teaching remained a constant throughout her life.

Kathryn was a faithful member of St. John Neumann Catholic Church, where she lived out her beliefs through service and advocacy. She was a devoted advocate for individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities, serving as a member of The ARC and participating on a State Task Force Subcommittee on Family Programs for the Physically and Mentally Challenged. Her quiet determination and compassionate voice helped shape programs that supported countless families.

Creatively gifted and socially engaged, Kathryn enjoyed quilting and embroidery, finding joy in creating pieces meant to be shared and cherished. She also loved to teach and play bridge, activities that reflected her sharp mind, patience, and love of bringing people together.

She is survived by her loving children: Charles A. Frey, Jr. (Kimberly) of Lititz; Richard P. Frey, DO (Kay) of Cranberry Township; Mark A. Frey of Wake Forest, NC; and Robert J. Frey (Teresa) of Lancaster. She was a proud grandmother to 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, all of whom were a great source of joy in her life.

Kathryn is also survived by her siblings, Mary Alice Stanton of Boston, MA; Robert E. Jacob of Somerset, PA; Vincent J. Jacob of Somerset, PA; Richard P. Jacob of Pittsburgh, PA; and Virginia Ware of Pittsburgh, PA as well as many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her beloved daughters, Mary R. Frey and Cassie Frey, and by her siblings Rhodora Donahue and William Jacob.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:00 PM on Monday, January 5, 2026, at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, Delp Road, Lancaster, PA. A viewing will be held at the church from 10:00 AM until the time of the service. Interment will follow at St. Joseph New Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John Neumann Catholic School, honoring Kathryn’s lifelong devotion to faith, education, and service.