Patricia M. Carey

Patricia Margaret Carey

October 15, 1931 - November 6, 2023

Patricia Margaret Carey (née McQuade) passed away peacefully November 6th, 2023 surrounded by loved ones. She was 92.

Patricia, known as Pat, was a devoted mother and a remarkable grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend. She is predeceased by her beloved husband, Eugene “Gene” Carey, to whom she was married for 48 years, and her brother, William.

She is survived by her loving children, Gene (Eve) Carey, Jim (Anita) Carey, Maureen (Jonathan) Ford, and Anne Marie (John) McNierney. Her beloved sisters, Joan (predeceased by Doc), Peggy (Roger), Kathy (Dave). She leaves a lasting legacy of 9 grandchildren, Kristin (Jake), Scott, J.P., Sean, Bridget, Patrick, Nicholas, Maureen, and Liam. Pat is also remembered by her extended family and many friends whom she held dear.

Pat was born on October 15, 1931, in Woodside, Queens, to William and Margaret McQuade. She was the proud daughter of her father, William, who attained the rank of Chief of Staff in the New York City Police Department. They later moved to Rego Park, Queens in 1946. Her journey continued at St. Sebastian elementary school in Sunnyside, Queens and later Cathedral High School. Her determination led her to Katherine Gibbs Secretarial School.

Pat met her beloved husband, Gene, at a party on her nineteenth birthday, and they married on October 29, 1955. After Gene’s service in the Navy, they moved to Malverne in April 1960, where Pat remained in the same house until her passing.

A dedicated employee, Pat worked at Texaco, Old Deerfield Fabrics, and eventually found her place at Adelphi University, where she navigated the transition from typewriters to computers with adaptability and proficiency. Even in her later years, Pat embraced modern technology, using a laptop, texting regularly, and maintaining an active social media presence.

In her leisure time, she enjoyed playing bridge, mahjong, and golf with friends, which brought her happiness throughout her life. Southampton, where she and Gene built a home in 1966, was one of her favorite places filled with many happy memories. In her quieter moments, she cherished her alone time, immersed in the worlds of books. A devout Catholic, Pat was an active member of the Our Lady of Lourdes parish for 63 years. Pat was also deeply proud of her Irish heritage, a cherished part of her family's rich history. After Gene’s death, Pat was a faithful volunteer with the Catholic Charities program for the blind and visually impaired for several years, demonstrating her dedication to helping others.

Pat was a kind soul who gave herself to so many people and was a remarkable mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend. Family was everything to her. Her home was always a place for gathering, where she welcomed family and friends with open arms, especially around the holidays.

Pat's family and friends will forever hold her memory close to their hearts, cherishing her remarkable intellect and boundless kindness. She will be lovingly remembered for her unwavering generosity and the warmth of her big heart.