Patricia Corinne Elliott

Patricia Corrine Elliott, a trailblazing professional, devoted patron of the arts, and adventurous spirit, passed away peacefully in her sleep on November 14, 2025, at the age of 99. A resident of Rochester Hills, Michigan, at American House, she previously spent most of her adult life in her beloved condominium in Warren.

Born on September 19, 1926, in Bessemer Township, Michigan, Patricia was the daughter of the late Harold Elliott and Ibrena Jenkins (originally of Ontario, Canada). She grew up in Traverse City, Michigan, where she developed an early appreciation for the beauty of the coastal landscapes—a love for the water that would stay with her throughout her life.

Patricia was a proud graduate of Michigan State University, earning her bachelor's degree before embarking on a career defined by breaking barriers. After college she moved to Saginaw, where she discovered a lifelong passion for the theater. Initially performing onstage, she later transitioned to backstage production, finding joy in the magic of creating a show.

Her professional journey took her to Detroit in her late 20’s where she built a career in advertising and media at a time when few women held such roles. Patricia was a true pioneer, becoming one of the first female advertising and copywriters for powerhouse WWJ AM while living in an apartment downtown. Her dynamism extended into the political sphere beginning in the 1950s; she served as a delegate at the Republican National Convention and worked on the campaigns for Governors Milliken and Romney.

Patricia’s zest for life was evident in her diverse and active hobbies. A woman of many talents, she obtained her Captain’s License through the Detroit Yacht Club—another trailblazing achievement. She spent years sailing the Great Lakes and the Caribbean and was an active member of the Sailing Singles club for over two decades. Her love for activity also extended to the slopes and the fairways as a member of the Somerset Singles Ski and Golf Club.

A true Detroiter, Patricia was a fixture in the local cultural scene. She volunteered as an usher at the original Fox Theatre and for the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) and was a staunch supporter of community theater. Passionate about music, she was a long standing member of the Greater Detroit Jazz Society. She also loved the sporty energy of the Motor City, cheering on the Lions and Tigers for decades and faithfully attending the Dream Cruise and the Grand

Prix.

Her softer side was reflected in her avid doll collecting, particularly the original Barbie line. This hobby was nurtured by her work at FAO Schwarz and The Doll Hospital. In her later years at American House and the Carlson Card House ,she was known as a formidable opponent at the card table, where she was hard to beat in a game of Euchre. As a young girl, Patricia’s grandmother taught her to read tea leaves, which she did to the delight of friends until she passed away.

Patricia loved traveling throughout the United States and Europe, but her heart always remained in Michigan. She will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, her professional tenacity, and her enduring love for the arts and her community.

Funeral Services

Visitation will be held on December 4, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Pixley Funeral Home in Auburn Hills, Michigan.

Donations

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Greater Detroit Jazz Society in Patricia’s memory, keeping the music she loved alive.