Patricia Barnum Williams

Patricia Barnum Williams of Madison, CT, passed away at home, surrounded by family, on April 1, 2026, at the age of 92. Born to Hewitt and Marie Lee Barnum, January 4, 1934, in Mt. Vernon, NY. She grew up in Rye, NY, where she formed lifelong friendships and an appreciation for family and community. Patricia attended Rye High School, earning a bachelor's degree from The College of New Rochelle in 1956. Her career began at New York Life, in 1958 she married Ronald Williams, working until the birth of her first child. Together they built a life marked by adventure, resilience, and devotion to their growing family.

Due to Ron’s career, the family moved frequently—three times to Milwaukee, twice to Italy, and once to Germany. Patricia managed each transition with grace, often running the household on her own and navigating new cultures and languages with determination. While living abroad, she volunteered at the American schools in Milan and Düsseldorf, frequently stepping in as a substitute librarian. In Wisconsin, she became a volunteer for the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra marketing office, an active member of the Garden Club of Fox Point, and discovered a lasting love for bowling.

In 1995, Patricia and Ron settled in Madison, where they embraced retirement with curiosity and exuberance. They treasured time with their grandchildren, enjoyed their elderhostel learning adventures, and continued to travel the world together. At home, Patricia poured her energy into the things she loved most: gardening, needlepoint, bird watching, and her bowling league. She also gave generously of her time, driving seniors to medical appointments and delivering holiday meals to those in need.

In addition to her parents, Patricia was preceded in death by her brothers, Donald and William Barnum; her husband, Ronald; and her daughter in law, Dora Puglia Williams.

She is survived by her children Christopher Williams, Paul Williams (wife Kim), and Karen Nichols (husband Kent); her seven grandchildren; and her brothers, Peter and Richard Barnum.

Internment will take place at Forest Hill Cemetery in Derry, NH.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.