Published by Legacy Remembers on Feb. 11, 2025.
Patricia A. Devine, 90, a devoted and loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, healthcare provider, and friend to many, passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by family, on December 23, 2024. Born in New Haven, CT, she was the daughter of the late Patricia and Edward Ehrensperger. She was predeceased by her husband, Daniel Devine.
A longtime resident of Branford, Patricia was an extraordinary lady who remembered every birthday, holiday, and special occasion for those around her. Her faith in God and devotion and love of family and friends brought joy to her life. A true people person, affectionately nicknamed "Chatty Cathy," will be remembered for her kindness, unconditional love, and deep sense of empathy, all complemented by her sense of humor that forged lasting friendships throughout her life.
After caring for her mother, who she lost to cancer at an early age, Patricia discovered her purpose in life: caring for terminally ill patients. She began her rewarding career in healthcare in the early 1980s at Connecticut Hospice, the first free-standing hospice in
Branford, CT, where she comforted countless patients and their families. During this time, she forged long-lasting friendships with colleagues such as Janet Viets, Barbara Korn, and Marianne Batson. Even after retiring to Florida, Patricia continued to care for others in need of comfort.
An avid learner and lifelong reader, Patricia's passion for books persisted even as her eyesight began to fade; she adapted by enjoying books on tape. She loved playing Scrabble, baking, sewing, attending Broadway shows, and volunteering at the Naples Players in the costume shop. Patricia embraced technology, mastering voice texting, and developed a fond connection with her "best friend," Siri. Most importantly, she cherished her time spent with her family, grand dog, Maddy, and Sunday night dinners.
Patricia is survived by her children, John (Lisa) Nilsson, Jr. and Jennifer (Dennis) Auray; her brothers, Edward R. Ehrensperger and Thaddeus Proshansky; her granddaughter, Shona Nilsson; niece, Lori Fyfe; and nephew, Tad Proshansky; The McKeown family (Lara, Brian, and Sarah) became a second family to her, along with Deborah Conklin and Kristine Azar, and the many friends from Lighthouse of Collier, Naples Players, High Point Country Club and Faith Lutheran Church (Randy and Susan).
May her memory be a blessing to all who loved her. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the wonderful caregivers at Avow Hospice for making her last few days comfortable. They also thank the friends at Lighthouse of Collier, who inspired her to persevere through her challenges, the Naples Players for providing her with a sense of purpose, and the Faith Lutheran Church community for supporting her through prayers and friendships.
The visitation is scheduled for March 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM, followed by a service at 10:30 AM, both taking place at the W. S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 North Main Street, Branford. Additionally, a memorial service will be held on March 29, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Faith Lutheran Church in Naples, Florida.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to:
Avow Hospice of Naples
https://avowcares.org/ways-to-give/Lighthouse of Collier
https://www.lighthouseofcollier.org/Naples Players
https://naplesplayers.org/Faith Lutheran Church
https://flcnaples.com/or a
charity of your choice.