Patricia "Patsy" Lau

Patricia O'Shea Lau, March 17, 1930 – October 12, 2025.

Born on St. Patrick's Day to Irish immigrants in Washington Heights, New York City, her parents told her the parade was for her, and she believed them.

Patricia was a proud graduate of Incarnation, Cathedral High School, and attended Bergen Community College. A professional volunteer while raising her three children, she served as school librarian, President of the Rosary Society, secretary for the National Organization of Catholic Women, and a Eucharistic Minister for over 40 years.

A remarkable woman with a huge spirit, Patsy was gregarious and full of fun. A voracious reader, gourmet chef, bridge player, movie lover and storyteller with a sharp wit and mind. She had a memory that could not be beat.

Patricia loved her family, her Irish heritage, the Church, and New York City.

Patricia is survived by her daughters, Jeanette Reilly, Christine Lau (Mike Malone), her son, Michael Lau, and grandchildren, Christian Tait (Kate Singer), Shannon Reilly, Christine Donegan (Pierce), great-grandchildren, Mason and Laila Tait, Bue Oben. Also survived by her brother, Walter, her sister, Mary, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Predeceased by her husband, Henry Lau (2005).

A celebration of Patricia's life will be held on Thursday, October 16 th, 4-7 PM at the Frech-McKnight Funeral Home, 161 Washington Avenue, Dumont. Funeral Mass Friday, October 17 th, 10:00 AM at St. Therese of Lisieux R.C. Church, 120 Monroe Avenue, Cresskill. Interment to take place at Maryrest Cemetery, 770 Darlington Avenue, Mahwah.