Patricia Ann (Coffey) Fay “PattiFay”, of Portsmouth died Saturday, June 4, 2016 at home in Portsmouth, after a courageous and determined battle with cancer. Her adoring family was by her side.
She was the wife of Bruce Eric Fay of Portsmouth, RI.
Born on September 15, 1952, Patti was the daughter of Barbara Bruno Coffey, of Middletown and the late William J. Coffey. She shared her birth with her lifelong best friend and identical twin sister Bobbi. In addition to her husband and mother, Patti is deeply mourned by her son Kyle Fay and his wife Kate, of Newport, her daughter Michaela DiCarlo and her husband Jon, her most cherished grandchildren Zoey Reese and Liam Jon Patrick of Taunton, MA; her brother Michael Coffey and his wife Melody, of Middletown, three sisters; Carol and Raymond Cordeiro, of Texas, Barbara Kosegarten, and Kathleen and Ron Pilotte, both of Newport. She also leaves behind many adoring nieces, nephews, cousins and a vast number of close and amazing friends. Patti wanted all of them to know how grateful she was for their laughter, love and especially for their prayers and support during her illness.
Patti attended Hazard Memorial Grammar School in Newport, which provided the foundation for her unwavering Catholic faith. She graduated from Rogers High School in the class of 1971 and continued her education at the University of Rhode Island, obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in education, and later a Master’s Degree from Salve Regina University.
In 1976, Patti married the love her life, Bruce, and the two of them embarked on an adventure of nearly 40 years, which included many family trips and plenty of laughs, while raising their two wonderful children.
Patti began her teaching career at the Newport Catholic Regional School( now All Saints Academy) and later spent 25 years as a 4th Grade teacher at Elmhurst School in Portsmouth, RI, and upon its closing, several more at Hathaway Elementary School where she finished her career as a 3rd Grade teacher.
During 40 years of teaching, Patti steadfastly demonstrated her dedication and unswerving devotion to all of her students, making each feel they were her priority. Many of Patti’s former students stayed in touch with her as they progressed in their lives.
Patti’s Catholic faith sustained her and a source of strength. She gladly and willingly gave her time, talent and treasure to St. Barnabas Church. Patti previously taught CCD classes and most recently had served as a Eucharistic Minister.
Patti was a great sports enthusiast and fun loving competitive athlete. She played softball, volleyball, basketball, skiing, tennis and most especially golf. She excelled in all of them. Patti was happiest when spending time with her large family, hosting Sunday pool parties, family dinner gatherings, game nights and dance parties. Watching her beautiful grandchildren grow and learn, provided her great joy. Patti leaves a lasting legacy of caring and compassion that will live on through those she leaves behind.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday June 9, 2016 from 4-8pm in the Connors Funeral Home 55 West Main Road in Portsmouth.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday June 10, 2016 at 10:00am in St. Barnabas Church 1697 East Main Road in Portsmouth, RI.
Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Patti’s memory to Hathaway School 53 Tallman Avenue Portsmouth, RI 02871, or to St. Barnabas Church fund 1697 East Main Road Portsmouth, RI 02871.
