Patricia LaDell Dennis

Patricia LaDell Dennis (nee Howard), age 83 of Sterling Heights, Michigan passed away on May 16, 2025. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend who leaves behind a legacy full of boundless love, joyful spirit and unwavering faith.

Pat was a deeply religious woman whose faith was the cornerstone of her life. For as long as she was able, she attended church faithfully and sang proudly in the choir—a passion she carried throughout most of her life. Even when she could no longer attend services in person, she remained steadfast in her worship, tuning in to religious programming and live-streaming services from home, never letting go of her spiritual connection. Music was another thread woven through Pat’s life. In addition to church choir, she enjoyed playing the organ and took great pleasure in teaching her grandchildren to play as well. She was also actively involved in the lives of her children and grandchildren, volunteering at countless school and extracurricular events. One of her proudest roles was serving as a Girl Scout leader, where her guidance and warmth made a lasting impact on many young lives.

Her pride in her appearance, especially her hair, was well-known. For 40 years, only one beautician was trusted to keep her hair in proper condition.

Pat was a gifted cook and a masterful baker. Her pies—especially her famous pie crust—were the highlight of many family meals and celebrations. She had a particular fondness for sweet treats and would often sneak a dessert after her husband had gone to sleep.

A devoted wife and loyal friend, Pat also delighted in fun adventures like casino trips with her husband and close companions. She also loved games, often spending evenings tuning in to her favorite game shows on TV, but also enjoyed table top games like Uno and Yahtzee.

Her love of penguins was legendary among those who knew her. She surrounded herself with a charming collection of penguin keepsakes that brought her joy and showcased her playful side. Pat also had a deep love for her family and cherished every gathering, camping trip, and special outing—especially trips to Traverse City with those closest to her. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Pat is survived by her husband of 59 years, Byron “Bud” Dennis; children Theresa Pollack and Jeff Dennis (Casandra); grandchildren Jessica Pollack, Erica Moore (Patrick) and Coral Dennis; and great-grandson Lincoln Moore.

A visitation for Pat will be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 from 2-8 PM at Resurrection Funeral Home, 40800 Hayes Road, Clinton Twp, Michigan. On Thursday, May 22, 2025 a brief gathering will begin at 10 AM and go until time of a funeral service at 11 AM also at Resurrection Funeral Home. A chapel committal service will immediately follow at Resurrection Cemetery on Clinton River Road in Clinton Township. Memorial donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.