Patricia Maier

Patricia was born on March 27, 1942 in Summit, New Jersey, and lived a life defined by love, devotion, and selflessness. She always put her family first, and her greatest joy came from being with those she loved most. She was a devoted mother to her daughters, Kathy O’Brien, Patti Venanzi and Debbie Maier, and a cherished grandmother and great-grandmother. One of her greatest blessings was meeting her new great-grandson this past Christmas — a moment her family will forever hold close to their hearts.

Patricia shared an incredibly special bond with her grandchildren, who adored being around her. When they learned of her illness, each of them made the effort to drive or fly in to be by her side, a testament to the love they shared. Some of their fondest memories were the summers spent at the shore with their grandparents, where days were filled with love, laughter, and togetherness. Those summers created traditions and memories that will be treasured forever. To her grandchildren, Patricia was lovingly known as “Babushka,” and to her great-grandchildren, she was “Gigi,” names that reflected the deep affection and joy she brought to their lives.

Patricia found joy in reading and playing Mahjong, activities she truly loved. She especially cherished time spent at her family home in Sea Isle City, where memories were made during happy hours on the Lido deck, waving from the “bye-bye balcony,” reading in her cozy nook on the couch, and laughing as her grandchildren — often after a few drinks — sang “So Long, Farewell” when it was time for her to go to bed.

She lived in Florida, where she was lovingly cared for by her daughters in her final months, facing her illness with remarkable grace and never once complaining.

Patricia is survived by her daughters, Kathleen O’Brien (Jay), Patricia Venanzi (Matthew) and Deborah Maier, her grandchildren, Matthew Venanzi (Tatiana), Caitlyn O’Brien, Alexander Venanzi, Nicholas Venanzi (Haley), Zachary Venanzi, Jaclyn O’Brien, Bobby Whitley and Christian Whitley and great-grandchildren, Madison O’Brien, Ivy Tobias and Enzo Venanzi. She is also survived by her sister Peggy Paglia, brother Charlie Ball (Marge) and many extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

Patricia was preceded in death by her loving husband Robert Maier and her parents, Ruby and Charles Ball.

Although her family grieves her loss, they are comforted knowing that Patricia is now at peace and reunited with her husband.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to hospice and medical caregivers for their compassion and care, and to friends and family for their love and support during this difficult time.

A Celebration of Life gathering will be held at her home in Sea Isle City, New Jersey this summer. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to For Pete’s Sake Cancer Respite Foundation (https://takeabreakfromcancer.org).

Patricia will be remembered for her loving heart, her devotion to family, and the quiet strength she carried throughout her life.