Patricia Ann Thomas

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Patricia Ann (née Sexton) Thomas, affectionately known as Patsy. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family on June 28, 2025.

Patsy was born on April 23, 1936, to Veronica M. and Elmer J. Sexton in Detroit Michigan. Patricia was preceded in death by her parents Elmer and Veronica, and her sister Joanie. Patsy was the eldest of four girls and is survived by Mary (Ron) and Peggy (late John). Patsy spent her childhood in Detroit, attending St. Mary of Redford School and later Marygrove College. It was during her college years that she met the love of her life, Don. They courted through college and were married on a beautiful summer day, August 9, 1958.

Patsy had a deep calling to education and pursued a career as a kindergarten teacher. Her wisdom, patience, and unwavering kindness left an indelible mark on many young lives she guided. Her influence extended far beyond the classroom, as she shared her heart and faith with everyone she met.

Patsy lived a life of service. Every day, quietly but powerfully, she was there to help others. Whether in her parish, her neighborhood, her children’s schools, or simply among friends and strangers alike, she was a steady presence of compassion and grace.

Patsy was also a woman of extraordinary strength. A true fighter, she faced life’s challenges-both great and small- with unshakeable courage and grace. Even as her body grew weaker with age and illness, her will remained strong, her faith unbreakable, and her spirit unyielding. She never gave up, even in the most difficult moments. Her resilience was an inspiration to all who knew her. The world lost a bright light the day Patsy passed, but her legacy of faith, strength, service, and grace will carry on through her family.

Family was Patsy’s greatest joy. She dedicated her life to raising her five children and later played an active role in the lives of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She beamed with pride when speaking of her family and cherished time spent with them, whether close to home or across the border in Canada with beloved relatives. Proud of her Irish heritage, Patsy held a special fondness for all things green and Irish.

Patsy is survived by her devoted husband of 67 years, Don, and her loving children: Ann (Ed) Battersby, Tim (Mary Lynn) Thomas, Brian (Jane) Thomas, Mary (Thames) Fulton, and Colleen (Kevin) Dewan. She is also survived by her adored grandchildren: Helen (Josh) Carlisle, Brian (Colleen) Battersby, Ryan Thomas, Patty (Noah) Jacob, Austin (Bean) Thomas, Veronica (Johnny) Ebbing, Molly (Ethan) Fulton, Will Fulton, Gabi Thomas, Ellie Thomas, Delia Fulton, Bridgette Thomas, Pat Dewan, Grace Dewan, Mary Dewan, and Rubye Fulton. Her precious great-grandchildren- Tony Carlisle, Maureen Battersby, Patrick Battersby, and Thomas Carlisle- were the light of her later years.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 from 3:00 until 8:00 P.M at the Schrader- Howell Funeral Home, 280 S. Main St. Plymouth, Michigan. Mass of the Resurrection will be held on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church, 133 Orchard Drive, Northville, Michigan. A brief visitation will take place prior to the service at 10:00 A.M until service time at 11:00 A.M. Inurnment will be private at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Southfield.