Patricia Ann Collins Desautels

Patricia Ann Collins Desautels, age 70, went to be with the Lord while surrounded by her four children, on Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2013, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Patricia was born in Pawtucket, R.I., and lived the majority of her life in Manchester. She was the daughter of John and Mary Collins. She was a friend of Bill W. for 40 years and lived her life "one day at a time." She was compassionate, kind-hearted, tough, accepting, straightforward, and fiercely loyal. She graduated from Manchester High School in 1960. She was an active member of the Manchester WATES. She dedicated her life to raising her kids to be the best people that they could possibly be. She worked for Glass Wool Insulation, a family company, for several years, including running their Natick, Mass. office. She also worked at Raymour and Flannigan in Manchester, often achieving the distinction as top sales person. Our mom, despite adversity, can be credited with the development of four loving and successful children. "The Lady" was one of a kind and left a positive impression with everyone who knew her. She was generous to a fault. Her bravery during her illness was remarkable. Her faith was unrelenting. Patty enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, watching QVC, a good meal, and good conversation. She loved to read and taught each of us to love books, saying, "books are your friend." She also enjoyed attending the religious services of Father Ralph DiOrio whenever she was able.

Patricia is survived by her four children: James Michael Desautels of Manchester, Mary Elizabeth Leahy of Granby, Michael Paul Desautels and his wife Jodi of Manchester, and Michele Ann Weiner and her husband Ross of Windsor. She has 10 grandchildren: James, Thomas, Patrick, Jack, Joshua, Emily, Jamie, Tyler, Emma, and Sean, all of whom she adored. She is also survived by her sister Michaela Gordon and her husband John of Manchester, and by two brothers: Jack Collins and his wife Jane of Chaplin and Paul Collins and his wife Beth of Bolton. She also leaves several nieces and nephews, and her dogs Reggie and Max.

The family would like to thank her oncologist Dr. Robert Siegel of Hartford Hospital, Donna Rioux, R.N., Marcia Caruso-Bergman, APRN, and the entire staff of the Harry Gray Cancer Center who helped to give her strength, dignity, and hope during her illness. We would also like to acknowledge her good friend Edward Dimlow for his kindness, support, and generosity to our mother during her illness.

In lieu of flowers, Patricia has requested donations be made to the Pathfinders Club of Manchester, CT, earmarked for the Children's Christmas Party. Christmas was a magical time for her and she wanted to make sure that joy was experienced by others. Donations can also be made to The Saint James School earmarked for Tuition Assistance.

Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 22, at 11:45 a.m. from the John F. Tierney Funeral Home, 219 West Center St., Manchester, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 12:30 p.m. at St. James Church, 896 Main St., Manchester, followed by burial in St. James Cemetery.

Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Monday from 4 to 8 p.m.

For online condolences please visit:

www.tierneyfuneralhome.com