Patricia Morris Delaney

Patricia was a woman of deep faith, quiet strength, and undeniable grace. Always impeccably dressed and warm in spirit, she had a way of lighting up a room simply by walking into it.

Patricia was born on March 17, 1944, in Fall River, Massachusetts, to the late Francis E. Morris, Sr. and Alice L. Morris. From an early age, she carried herself with dignity and purpose–traits that would define her life and legacy.

She attended John Adams High School in Queens, New York, and continued her education at North Carolina A&T State University in Greensboro, North Carolina, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics, with a minor in Mathematics. Patricia later attended Brooklyn College and Long Island University, where she completed her Master’s degree in Economics.

Education was not just her profession–it was her calling.

Patricia devoted more than 35 years to teaching and mentoring young people. She began her career with the New York City Board of Education, teaching at I.S. 49 in Brooklyn, New York from February 1970 to October 1978. In 1978, she married Frederick Adam Delaney in Altadena, California, beginning a new chapter of love and service.

Together, Patricia and Frederick opened their hearts and home as foster parents, caring for seven to nine young boys between the ages of 10 and 16. During those years, they provided stability, guidance, and hope, changing lives in ways that can never be fully measured.

From 1979 to 1984, Patricia taught at A.B. Nobel Junior High School in Northridge California. After the untimely passing of her husband in 1984, Patricia returned to New York, where she resumed teaching at I.S. 49 until her retirement in 2003. Her students remember her as firm but fair, compassionate, and deeply invested in their success.

Faith was the cornerstone of Patricia’s life. While in New York, she was an active and devoted member of Bethel Gospel Tabernacle International, where she served faithfully as Children’s Church President, camp volunteer, and Vice President of the Widows/Widowers Fellowship.

In 2004, Patricia relocated to Richmond, Virginia, where she purchased her retirement home. In 2005, she joined Unity of Faith Fellowship, continuing her lifelong service to the church. She served as Treasurer, Annual Tea Party Coordinator, an intercessory prayer warrior, and in many other ministry roles. Her commitment and leadership eventually led her to become a Deaconess, a role she carried with humility and devotion.

Patricia was the proud matriarch of the Morris family–a steady presence, a source of wisdom, and a woman whose love extended far beyond bloodlines. She nurtured family, friends, students. and church members alike, leaving an indelible mark on every life she touched.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frederick A. Delaney; her brother, Francis E. Morris, Jr.; and her sister, Cecilia Parker.

Patricia leaves to cherish her memory her sister. Diana VanKallen; her nieces Teresha Molds Morgan (Timothy), Rochelle M. Cooper (A.J.), Khalilah Morris, and Shanise Peoples (Leroy); her nephews Sean VanKallen (Shanequa). Jason Parker, and Jean-Pierre (Jasmine); her godson, Mikal Tarves; her goddaughter, Georgette Ligons; and a host of beloved grand-nieces and grand-nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Patricia M. Delaney lived a life rooted in faith, service, education, and love. Her legacy will continue to shine through the many lives she shaped. guided, and uplifted.