Patty Black, 66, of East Lansing, died Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2018 following a lingering illness. She was born April 23, 1952 in Grand Rapids to Thomas H. and Mary E. Black.
She is survived by three sisters, Mary (Tom) Christensen of Grand Rapids, Barbara (Donald) Zekany of Ann Arbor, and Maureen Black of Ann Arbor; and three brothers, Tom (Rosaura) of East Lansing, Joe (Anna) of Roanoke, Va., and Jim (Tina) of Orlando, Fla.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas H. (1996) and Mary E. (2000), and by sisters Catherine (1980) and Margaret (1983).
She was a practicing Roman Catholic, a frequent volunteer who taught English as a Second Language, and enjoyed mentoring young immigrants from Mexico, Central America and Asia.
About seven years ago, Patty began serving as a mentor and tutor for a girl named Thadah, from Myanmar, helping her become established in a new country and culture as she grew into adulthood. Fittingly, after Thadah completed a home health aide training program recently, she was able to care for Patty during her last few weeks in hospice. Family members are grateful to Thadah and all of the other health and medical professionals who helped Patty through many difficult days.
Patty was perhaps the world's biggest Beatles fan, and saw the Fab Four at the old Olympia Stadium in Detroit in 1966. Her quick wit, love of laughter and great conversational skills made her a favorite of her friends, siblings, nieces and nephews. Patty was the life of the party even when there was no party. She loved family gatherings, and treasured the traditions of Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter -- especially Christmas decorations and music.
Visitation will be Sunday from 3-6 p.m. at Gorsline-Runciman Funeral Home, 900 E. Michigan Ave., Lansing, MI 48912. There will also be visitation from 9-10 a.m. Monday at St. Mary Cathedral, Lansing, followed by a funeral Mass at 10 a.m.
A private burial service for family members is scheduled for Tuesday in Midland.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a memorial donation may give to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (www.pancan.org) or Samaritas (https://www.samaritas.org).
