Patricia "Pat" Thompson Valleau

Mary Patricia Thompson Valleau, 83, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2025, at The Cedars in Portland, Maine, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Asheville, North Carolina, in 1941, “Pat” was the eldest of three daughters of William and Margie “Blake” Thompson. She grew up in Rhinebeck, New York, where she developed a love for community and family that would define her life.

After graduating from Roanoke College in Virginia, Pat began her career as a social worker in Philadelphia. It was there that she met her future husband, Tom Valleau. In 1970, they moved to Portland with their two young daughters. Together, they built a life filled with love, adventure, and a deep connection to this beautiful city.

Pat devoted ten years to being a stay-at-home mother, raising her daughters with care, creativity, and tireless devotion on Rockland Avenue in the close-knit Rosemont neighborhood. She lovingly sewed their clothes, volunteered in their classrooms, and managed a lively home filled with the warmth of beloved cats, dogs, and cherished friends. Among their most treasured memories are the countless trips to Crescent Beach, where—no matter the season—she encouraged them to explore the tidepools, tiny worlds filled with life and wonder.

Later in life, Pat returned to work for the State of Maine as a supervisor in child welfare. She conducted adoption studies, handled child abuse cases, and testified in court with unwavering dedication and compassion. Her colleagues, many of whom became lifelong friends, admired her steadfast work ethic and her ability to navigate complex situations with grace and empathy – she truly had “the hands of an angel and the heart of a lion.”

Pat had dozens of hobbies and interests, but her greatest passions were sailing and gardening. She and Tom spent every summer sailing Down East, where they made countless friends and shared unforgettable adventures. When she wasn’t sailing, Pat could be found in her gardens, nurturing life and beauty. Her passion for gardening led her to become a master gardener, and she shared those skills generously by volunteering in community gardens throughout the Portland area.

Pat’s four grandchildren were a constant source of joy in her life, and she took immense pride in watching them grow and thrive. She was a nurturing and involved grandmother, inspiring her grandchildren with imaginative activities and thoughtful conversations. Her love for them was boundless, and she cherished every moment she spent with her family.

Throughout their 58-year marriage, Pat and Tom shared an unbreakable bond -- a quiet testament to the strength of their partnership. Their enduring commitment to each other touched everyone who knew them.

Pat leaves behind her loving husband Tom; her cherished daughters Laura (and Tim) Healey of Nottingham, NH, and Megan (and Jeff) Austin of Brunswick, Maine; her beloved grandchildren Ben Healey, Sam Healey, Blakely Austin, and Charlie Austin; her devoted sister, Judy Oltmanns, and niece, Sarah Drenik, of Ohio; her nephew, Kyle Rankin of Florida; and so many dear friends who were touched by her kindness, humor, and strength. She was predeceased by her sister, Susan Conrad.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at The Cedars for the exceptional care and kindness they provided to Pat during the last three years of her life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Hospice of Southern Maine in Pat’s memory.

Onward and upward, beautiful soul.

The family invites you to a time of visitation on Saturday May 24th from 1:00 to 2:00pm, followed immediately by a Celebration of Life and a reception at Jones, Rich & Barnes Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St, Portland, ME.

You may offer your condolences or share your fond memories of Pat at www.jonesrichandbarnes.com