Pray for the repose of Kathryn Viland (1/25/1942 - 10/1/2025)

Kathryn Lois Briggs-Viland, beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away on
October 1. Her devoted husband of 50 years, Frederick Viland, passed in 2020. They were both very deep in their Catholic faith and were proud active members of Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul. Please pray for the repose of their souls. 

BURIAL will be Sat. Oct. 11, 2025 2pm at Mount Olivet Cemetery. All are welcome. 

Obituary

Kathryn Lois Briggs-Viland, beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away on Wednesday, October 1, to join her devoted husband of 50 years, Frederick Viland.

Born on January 25, 1942, in Altoona, PA, she was the daughter of the late Alton and Elizabeth Briggs. She graduated from high school in Altoona and began work at Penn State. Here is where she met her husband. 

She married her beloved husband, Frederick Viland on August 21, 1965. With his job, it allowed them to make roots in Maryland, the Netherlands, Texas, and eventually to Chattanooga, TN where they enjoyed retirement together and being closer to the grandkids. They were both very deep in their Catholic faith and were proud active members of Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul.

Kathryn was a cherished mother to five children: Drew Viland (wife Lisa), Greg Viland (wife Kari), Deirdre Bolter (husband George), Liz Gilmore (husband Nathan), and Joe Viland (wife Tara). Her love and guidance shaped the lives of her children and extended warmly to her 12 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild, who will carry her legacy forward.

She was a loving sister to Joe Briggs, and was preceded in death by her siblings Margaret Vance, Jim Briggs, Mary Moser, and Susanne Marshall. Kathryn’s life was marked by her deep compassion, quiet strength, and unwavering dedication to her family and community.

Kathryn was not only a devoted mother but also a gifted court reporter whose career took her to Washington, D.C. Later in life, she found joy in sharing her passion by teaching others the art and discipline of court reporting—a profession she deeply respected and loved.

We are grateful for the care she received at The Bridge at Ooltewah and her wonderful friend and caregiver Alice Cooper. Her love and support for our mother were so appreciated. 

Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and her spirit will continue to inspire those she touched with her kindness and grace.

You may share condolences with the family at www.heritagechattanooga.com

Visitation (family only) will be Saturday, October 11, 2025 from 1:00 pm until 1:30 pm at Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 E. Brainerd Road.

Burial will be Saturday, October 11, 2025 at 2:00 pm at Mount Olivet Cemetery. All are welcome. 

Pray 

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon them. May Pam Rudd, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

At this time, the Divine Mercy Chaplet is especially recommended:

How to Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet