Add a Memory
Make a Donation
1945
2026
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Patricia “Pat” Angeline Dooley on February 26, 2026.
Born on February 17, 1945, in Athboy, County Meath, Ireland, Pat emigrated with her large and loving family to Brooklyn in 1958. It was during a summer at the Jersey Shore that she met her future husband, Jimmy, of more than 53 years. Together, they raised their children, Bernadette
and James, in Fords (Woodbridge) before retiring to Brick.
Driven by a lifelong passion for exploration, Pat began her adventures traveling through Europe with friends in her youth. Later, she and her husband, Jim, continued to explore the world, enjoying numerous cruises and visiting various destinations across the Caribbean and Europe.
Pat also held a personal goal to visit all 50 states, coming just short of completing the full set.
Whether discussing politics, solving puzzles, or sharing meals and laughter with dear friends from her years at Rutgers University or from the gym, Pat’s sharp mind, warm heart, and delightfully sassy spirit always shone through. She loved walking, especially along the iconic
Jersey Shore boardwalks.
She is reunited in eternal rest with her sister, Rose, and her parents, Josephine and Christopher Gaffney. She is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Jim (James); her daughter, Bernadette, and son-in-law, Paul Stefanski; her son, James, and daughter-in-law, Glenda; and
her cherished grandchildren, Ella and Eric. She also leaves behind her beloved siblings — Stella, Ann, Sheila, Irene, Linda, Tom, and Christy — as well as dozens of nieces and nephews who adored their Aunt Pat.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Colonial Funeral Home in Brick, NJ, on Tuesday, March 3rd, from 3:00–7:00 PM. A short service will be held on Wednesday at 10:30 AM, with a repast to follow.
Tributes and condolences may be shared by visiting the guestbook at www.colonialfuneralgroup.com
6 Entries
Prachi Parmar
March 1, 2026
Bern, James, Mr Dooley and family,
I cannot imagine what you are going through. My heart is with all of you. Bern, I have so many memories of your mom when we were 5 and throughout the 45 years I’ve known you! She was so full of life and wit! She will always be looking over all of you. ❤
Andrew Pietrzyk
March 1, 2026
Mrs. D was truly one of a kind - tough, fair, and SMART. She suffered no fools (like me, sometimes). I always admired her sharp wit and Irish spirit. She brought color to our lives...I will miss her deeply.
Great family, our deepest sympathies.
The Pietrzyks
Coleen Varesano
February 28, 2026
Dear Uncle Jimmy, Bernadette, Paul, James, Glenda, Ella, & Eric,
So sorry for the passing of Aunt Pat! I will
Always keep her memories with me in my heart!! We may not have talked in a while, but never forgotten!! Loved our phone calls
With each other, and texts!! We always had good times when we got together! I will
Miss her beautiful smile!!
May her body be at peace now!
Joanne Givand
February 28, 2026
I Remember working with Pat at Rutgers and loved listening to her Irish brouge. Pat was a dedicated employee and valued member of the Institute for Women’s Leadership. She was always there with a smile and willing to help answer any questions faculty and students might have.
As the years passed we exchanged stories of our children, weddings and hopefully becoming grandparents, all of which came true.
She loved the shore and knew she’d move closer to enjoy it in her retirement, doing what she loved most. A beautiful, kind woman.
Jackie, John & Joseph Vecchio
February 28, 2026
May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
May your hearts be filled with happy memories. We are so sorry for your loss. Pat was such a beautiful person and a wonderful friend and neighbor.
Eileen Midtbo
February 28, 2026
Pat was a light in this world
Always smiling and giving
Forever in the hearts she has touched
Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results
Mar
3
3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Colonial Funeral Home
2170 Route 88, Brick, NJ 08724
Mar
4
10:30 a.m.
Colonial Funeral Home
2170 Route 88, Brick, NJ 08724