Catherine Belter, a long time Fairfax County education advocate, died at her home Saturday. 

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of a great friend and mentor," said Ramona Morrow, president of the Fairfax County Council of PTAs.  "Cathy's efforts on behalf of all children will be remembered here in Fairfax, in Virginia and nationally for years to come."

Cathy served as president of the Virginia PTA from 1985 - 87, then served 10 years on the board of the National PTA, before her election to the Fairfax County School Board.  She served two terms, 2000 to 2008, as Springfield District representative.

She'd also worked part time for Fairfax County Public Library.

Morrow said her association and eventual friendship with Cathy began in 1987.  "Cathy's advocacy work for children helped define the term parent involvement," she said.  "As a child advocate, she gave much yet asked in return only that we each do what was within our own heart on behalf of ALL children."

Cathy is survived by Leonard Belter, her husband of forty-five years, two children, Laura Belter Shannon of Vienna, Va., and Douglas Belter of Springfield, Va., two grandchildren, Bailey and Dean Shannon, and by her son-in-law Brian Shannon of Vienna, Va.

Funeral arrangements for Cathy include:

• Wake services on Thursday, Jan. 5, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home.
• A mass of Christian burial on Friday, Jan. 6, at 10 a.m. at Church of the Nativity.
• A family member graveside service on Friday, Jan. 6, at 11:30 a.m. at Fairfax Memorial Cemetery.
• A reception in Cathy's honor from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 6, at the Springfield Golf and Country Club.

"The lives of countless children and parents have benefited from Cathy's actions to always follow her heart," said Morrow.  This grand lady will be missed.  My deepest sympathy goes out to Len, Laura, Douglas, Bailey and Dean as they hold dear their memories of Cathy."

Cathy died of Alzheimer's.  The family requests in lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association.