Patricia Dolan Ettus

A long-term resident of Kingsmill on the James in Williamsburg, Patti was a loving wife, mother and grandmother and left her imprint on family and friends. She is survived by her devoted husband of 43 years, Douglas Edward Ettus; her beloved children, Ryan Dolan Ettus, married to Laura, and Megan Ettus Hesselbein, married to Brendan; as well as three treasured grandchildren: Eleanor, Yates, and Sophie. Her sisters, Peggy Love and Ellen Franks, also survive her, providing a testament to the enduring bonds of family.

Born Patricia Ann to Thomas and Bernadine Dolan on October 11, 1955, in Syracuse, NY, Patti soon found herself living in Newport News, VA. After graduating from Denbigh High School in 1974, Patti attended Hollins College in Roanoke, VA. After graduation, Patti moved to Northern Virginia where she accepted a job with the Burroughs Corporation selling office computers. Three years later she moved into pharmaceutical sales with the Upjohn Company.

It was in Northern Virginia where Patti met Doug, whom she married on September 4, 1982.

In 1984, Patti and Doug moved to Newport News to nurture a family business, Career Development Center, a private career school dedicated to training future healthcare and administrative professionals. It was three years later, in 1987, they moved to Williamsburg. Together, they built a beautiful life centered around family, love, and mutual respect. It was here that Patti watched her children mature. Both children attended Walsingham Academy from pre-kindergarten through high school graduation, attended college, and both earned advanced graduate degrees. They have both become successful professionals, marrying, and having children of their own and repeating the cycle of life.

While the children were in school, Patti was the consummate mother, squiring children through doctor appointments, schoolwork, athletics, and social activities. Upon becoming an empty nester, when Megan left for college, Patti went to work at the Williamsburg Regional Library to fill the void created by the loneliness at home.

In addition to Patti’s love of family was her joy of travel. Beginning with a college year abroad in Paris, France, Patti was an accomplished explorer. Together with Doug, Patti traveled to all seven continents and sailed across all five oceans. But Patti’s greatest joy was the time spent with grandchildren, whose laughter and curiosity she cherished above all.

An active member of many community organizations, Patti’s involvement with the Kingsmill Women’s Social Club as New Member Coordinator was particularly dear to her heart. Patti was known for her friendly demeanor and tireless work ethic. She was a natural leader, always ready to lend a helping hand, embodying the true essence of a friend. Her loss is deeply felt, yet her legacy of love, generosity, and kindness will forever inspire those she leaves behind.

A Funeral Mass celebrating Patti’s life will be held at 1:00 PM on May 15, 2026, at St. Bede Catholic Church, located at 3686 Ironbound Road, Williamsburg, VA 23188.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Patti’s memory to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (https://www.nationalmssociety.org/).

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff at Sentara Hospital Williamsburg for their compassionate care during Patti’s final days. Her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her.

Rest in Peace Patti. Your journey was extraordinary and your legacy of love will endure.