Mary Patricia (Patsy) Reilly (née Griffin) passed peacefully at age 93 on October 17, 2024 surrounded by family, and is now reunited with her beloved husband Tommy.
Patsy was the seventh child born on March 11,1931 in County Longford, Ireland to Mary Jane (O'Neill) and Patrick Griffin. She emigrated to the United States in 1954 and worked as a medical stenographer in Alabama and Florida (where she learned that the sun was not her friend!) and then at the Southern Pacific Hospital when she moved to San Francisco in 1960.
Like many other young Irish newcomers to San Francisco, Patsy met the love of her life at the KRB dance hall. She and Tommy married in 1962 and moved to 24th Avenue where they lived the greatest years of their lives. She was an amazing homemaker who raised her three children in a home full of warmth, laughter and love. There was always something simmering on the stove or baking in the oven. Patsy and Tommy were faithful parishioners of St. Cecilia Church, and founding members of the United Irish Cultural Center.
Patsy and Tommy moved to San Carlos in 2002 to be closer to family and grandchildren. After Tommy's passing in 2004, Patsy was supported by her many friends (thank you for the phone calls and making the drive down from SF!). She could always be found tending to her garden or in the kitchen enjoying a cup of tea and a sweet treat with anyone that dropped by for a much appreciated visit, especially from her grandchildren. She doted on them! Patsy was generous to a fault, and enjoyed a life enriched by her wonderful friends and family.
Patsy was a loving mother to Catherine (Chuck) Heller, Kevin (Jennifer) Reilly, and Patricia (Guy) Taylor. She was the adored and proud "Grandma" to Matthew (Kate), Justin, Ryan, Kate, Maeve, Grace, Caroline and Thomas.
She was a cherished sister to Pauline Berry and her late brothers Thomas, Jack, Patrick, Jerry, Alex, and Jimmy. Patsy is survived by and loved by her many in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews in the U.S., Ireland, England and Australia.
Everyone who met Patsy will remember her great sense of humor (often self-deprecating). She always had a mischievous wink and twinkle in her eye. She will live in our hearts forever.
Patsy moved to Judy's Homes for the Elderly in San Mateo in 2022 and her family is grateful for the wonderful care she received. The family would like to thank Michelle, Ai Ai, Misty and Hernan for their attentive care and compassion.
Patsy's services will be held at Saint Gregory Catholic Church, 2715 Hacienda St, San Mateo on Monday, October 28, 2024, with visitation at 10:15 a.m. followed by a funeral Mass at 10:45 a.m. Friends are invited to attend a lunch reception following the Mass.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Patsy's name to a charity of your choice.