Cantor Ralph Katz z"l was a native of New York and the son of a cantor. He was with Congregation Beth El since its conception in 1982. 

Cantor Ralph Katz was active in local musical productions, such as The Jewish Community Center, and had been the leading baritone for the Houston Gilbert & Sullivan Society for more than twenty years. 

Cantor Katz was married to the love of his life, Carol Katz. He was the proud father of four children and the proud grandfather of four grandchildren.