Patricia W. Ellis

Patricia Ellis (nee White) formerly of Delmar, 84, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, October 6

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at Kingsway Arms Nursing Center in Schenectady after a long 10 year health struggle.  The family would especially like to thank the staff at Kingsway for the wonderful care she received.

Patricia, the youngest child of Earl and Lyna White of Brighton, NY, was born on March 10, 1935.  Growing up, she looked up to her much older sister, Eleanor, and idolized her brother Charlie who served heroically in World War II.   She loved being Aunt Pat to Charlie’s wonderful children, Nancy, Barb and Carol.

Upon graduation from Brighton High School in 1953, Patty answered her calling and graduated from the Chestnut Hill School of Nursing in Philadelphia.  Patty lived in Schenectady, Watertown, and Massena, NY, before settling in Delmar in 1964. While in Delmar, Patty began work as a school nurse at Hamagrael Elementary School.  For the next 25 plus years, she found great joy in her work with children. She had an infectious personality and the love the students showed her was only surpassed by the love she gave in return.  She was affectionately known as the Ice Lady for her first line of defense against any bump or bruise.   Patty was an avid walker, runner, swimmer and skier before her health declined.  During the summer, Patty could be found at the Bethlehem Town Park sitting with her "pool friends" or vigorously swimming laps. She was a devoted member of Delmar Presbyterian Church and actively participated in all church activities and was a past deacon and elder in the church. The church and its members were her best friends and the family will always be grateful to the support and kindness they provided to her.

Her greatest love was always her children.  Although it was never easy, she was able to provide nurturing support for each child's interests, whether Little League, the girl scouts or helping them find a first job.   She valiantly faced many of life's toughest challenges.  In later years, she greatly anticipated being with her family during the holidays.   Patty was over the moon when the four grandchildren came along including her grand dog, Shelby.  Patty is survived by her loving children - Peter (Tammy Ross) of Stillwater, Penny Shaw (Elliott) of Delmar, and Todd (Kathleen) of Martha's Vineyard, and grandchildren, Caroline and Katherine Ellis and Christopher and Ted Shaw. A Memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, November 23, 2019, 11:00am at the Delmar Presbyterian Church. Calling hours will be at Applebee Funeral Home in Delmar on Friday, November 22nd from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Deacons Fund of the Delmar Presbyterian Church, 585 Delaware Ave, Delmar, NY 12054.