Patricia Heath

Patricia O’Malley Heath was born in Youngstown, Ohio, to Jack and Mildred O’Malley on April 23, 1941. She spent her first 12 years there forming cherished memories which stayed with her throughout her well-lived life. Among her favorites were Sundays after church when family would gather at the park—cousins, aunts, and uncles together. The children played while her dad cooked a big breakfast for all. Pat also loved living close to her Aunt Mamie, Uncle Joe, and her grandparents, and treasured the time spent in their loving homes.

In 1953, Pat’s family moved to Valparaiso, Indiana. Pat attended Saint Paul’s Junior High and graduated from Valparaiso High School in 1959. It was there where she met the love of her life, Rod, in 1963. They were married for 53 terrific years—true partners in their marriage—sharing many adventures, but always finding their greatest joy in time spent with family.

Pat’s greatest pride and joy was the time she spent as a stay-at-home mom to Jen and Jeff, who always knew she would be home when they walked through the door, with a welcoming smile and a big hug, wanting to know about their day. Pat had a green thumb and loved to work in her beautiful garden. She was an avid reader, attended many operas and concerts, and was an ace at word games, with her favorite being Word Bubble. She had a witty sense of humor that delighted those who knew her best.

In her later years, Pat found her greatest happiness in the time spent with her family—especially Jennifer, Jeff, Amy, and her beloved grandson Ben, for whom her love was boundless. No one could capture her heart and attention quite like he did.

Pat passed away peacefully on a cold, cloudy January day, surrounded by loved ones, candlelight, and her favorite music. As she took her final breaths, the sun briefly appeared, casting a magnificent, memorable sunset—a fitting reflection of a life filled with warmth, love, and grace.

Pat is survived by her daughter, Jennifer; son, Jeff; daughter-in-law, Amy; grandson, Ben; sister, Gail; beloved niece, Julie; and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Pat’s honor to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.