Patrick and Frances Dunleavy

Patrick Dunleavy, son of Nora and Joseph, died on November 14, 2024, at 94. He followed his beloved wife Frances to the next dimension, daughter of Bridget and John Hannafin who passed on September 14, 2023, at 87. It was a sad ending to lives rich with love and experiences that forged their strong commitment to each other and their family. They were proud first-generation Irish Americans who met and fell in love at Fordham University. Married for 64 years they shared the ups and downs of life, balancing careers and childrearing, friendships and family, recreation, and community. They liked to entertain, play golf and cards, read novels, watch old movies, listen to big band music and opera sung by their daughter Mary. Fran and Pat loved the Jersey shore, body surfing the waves and bundling in towels under the umbrella reading into the evening.

Pat was a life-of-the-party guy, with a quick wit and voice that brought the room to tears with Danny Boy and If Ever I Would Leave You, then laughter with a rousing Let Ye All Be Irish Tonight. Fran was smart and energetic, a devoted wife and stay-at-home mother, active in the church and communities where she lived. She hosted many a holiday with their sisters' families and neighborhood gatherings, ever the welcoming heart and often the helpful advisor. They were both accountants with a mutual professional respect. Pat left his corporate finance career at Coca Cola Bottling Company to partner in a small accounting firm; Fran revived her career as Controller at the Museum of Natural History in NYC after raising her children. They happily retired to Williamsburg VA, staying active, making new friends, and relaxing on their deck overlooking the golf course.

They encouraged their three daughters Patricia, Kathleen and Mary through school, marriages, and adult turning points as they found their own way in the world. Fran and Pat adored their grandchildren Kevin, Brian, Sean, Ryan, and Madeleine and were proud of their many academic, sports, theatrical and professional accomplishments. They cherished the friends they made living in NY, CT, NJ, and VA. They knew how to have a good time. Fran and Pat lived a full life, always with integrity, generosity, and a sense of humor. It is with deep gratitude for their legacy of love by example and steadfastness that we bid them farewell for now, knowing they are reunited soulmates, and at peace. Up Kerry, Up Sligo!