Patricia Peterson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Patricia Peterson, age 72, of Ridge, New York, on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. Patricia was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend who touched the lives of many with her warmth, compassion, and unwavering love.

Born in Manhattan to William and Eleanor Lamb, Patricia experienced the loss of her mother at a young age. Her father would go on to marry Catherine Lamb, who would be the mother that raised her and with whom she shared a deeply special bond while growing up in Brooklyn. Patricia is survived by her devoted husband of 51 years, Joseph; their three children: daughter Jill Brady (James), son Christian Peterson (Gabrielle), and son Robert Peterson (Racquel). She was the proudest grandmother to Kelsey, Kendall, Gavin, Madelyn, William, Olivia, and Jackson. Although she was a tremendous mother, she loved her grandchildren so completely that nothing else would bring her more joy. She is also survived by her siblings, nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of family and friends. Patricia is predeceased by her parents, her brothers, and her sister.

In 1968, on New Year’s Eve, Patricia and Joseph shared their first date—a trip to the movies screening “The Graduate”—and their love blossomed from that night forward. Their 55 years together, including 51 years of marriage, was a true testament to a love for the ages. Joseph, who affectionately called Patricia “My Darling,” often reminded those around them of the incredible bond they shared, setting an unmatched example of commitment for their children and grandchildren. Together, they spent countless hours at the beach, traveling to Hawaii multiple times to enjoy the beauty of the sea and sand beneath their toes, falling more in love with every sunset shared.

Patricia had a remarkable career as an editor for the American Institute of Physics, working on complex texts and studies that few could comprehend. After retiring, Patricia found new joy as a nanny to the LaGala family, caring for Gabriella and Hailey, who became family to her. The love she shared with them enriched her life in ways words cannot fully capture.

Outside of work, Patricia found peace and happiness in the simple pleasures of life. She loved spending time outdoors—whether it was gardening or simply being at the beach. Skilled at crochet, Patricia passed this cherished craft on to her grandchildren and family. Her love for music, particularly country, filled her home, though she shared with Joseph an affinity for “Wonderful Tonight” by Eric Clapton, a song that became deeply sentimental for them both.

A die-hard Yankee fan, she always rooted for the Bronx Bombers. The only teams that trumped her love for the pinstripes, was whatever team her grandchildren were playing on. Patricia was also a staunch patriot, proud to be an American, always supporting her country and living by her ideals. She was a lifelong animal lover, particularly of cats, and took great care of them.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Drs. George Cyriac and Garry Lachhar, whose compassionate care made all the difference to Patricia. In addition, the family also wishes to thank the staff at NY Cancer & Blood Specialists and The John T. Mather Infusion Center and friend Debra Schafer, NP.

A visitation for Patricia will be held on Sunday, December 1, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at O.B. Davis Funeral Homes, 1001 Route 25A, Miller Place, NY 11764, with an evening visitation from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the same location. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Monday, December 2, 2024, at 10:30 AM at St. Mark's RC Church, 105 Randall Rd, Shoreham, NY 11786. Following the mass, a committal service will be held at Washington Memorial Park, 855 Canal Rd, Mount Sinai, NY 11766.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Patricia’s memory be made to Good Shepherd Hospice: https://www.catholichealthli.org/good-shepherd-hospice/ways-give.

Patricia will be greatly missed, but her love, kindness, and strength will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. May she rest in peace.