Articles and News
In Memoriam: Alan Katz, DeBoulle Diamond & Jewelry; Ralph Williams, former SJTA leader August 28, 2013 (0 comments)
Dallas, TX—Alan Joseph Katz, vice president of operations for deBoulle Diamond & Jewelry, died August 22. He was 69.
In addition to deBoulle, Katz had worked for a number of well-known retailers in the industry, including Zale Corp. and Friedman's Jewelers, for a total of almost 50 years. Throughout his career, Katz held various positions in store management, operations, marketing, merchandising, and senior level management, culminating in the last seven years which he spent as deBoulle’s vice president of operations.
"Alan was truly a great man that had a passion for the industry," said Denis Boulle, CEO of deBoulle Diamond & Jewelry. "Everyone at deBoulle will miss his strong work ethic, dedication and sense of humor."
Survivors include his wife, Alice Katz; daughter Michele Katz Rummel and husband Glenn Rummel II; son, Blair Douglas Katz; mother, Shirley Katz; brother, Irvin S. Katz; sister-in-law, Beth Katz; grandchildren, Madeline Rummel and Emmie Rummel and niece, Julie Katz Schoper.
Memorials may be made to Temple Emanu-El, 8500 Hillcrest Ave., Dallas, TX 75225.
Ralph Williams, Former SJTA President
Atlanta, GA--Ralph Williams, a past president of SJTA and former member of the organization's board of directors, died August 23 after a battle with cancer. Williams also was a past president of the 24 Karat Club of the South, and managed southern territories for Gabriel & Co. Previously, he had owned his own jewelry store.
He is survived by his wife, Kathy Beall, and daughters Libby Brown and Kim Williams, son-in-law Tim Brown, stepson Brian Chadwick Beall, granddaughter Ella Brown and various other relatives.
The family has planned for two memorial services. The first was held in Donalsonville, GA on August 28 and the second will be September 3 in Atlanta, GA, at Unity North Atlanta Church. In lieu of flowers, Williams had requested donations be made in his memory to one of his favorite charities, Best Friends Animal Society and Sanctuary in Kanab, UT.
Ralph Williams, left, with wife Kathy Beall.