PATRICIA ST. DENNY

NORWICH – Patricia St. Denny, 72, who always brought warmth, compassion, and a smile to those around her, passed away on December 7, 2013 at Wilson Regional Medical Center in Johnson City, NY.
Pat dealt with this brief illness in a very positive manner always displaying class, dignity, along with her lifelong sense of humor which gave her family and close friends’ great comfort during this difficult period.
The eldest of three children, Pat was born in Hartford, Connecticut on March 9, 1941. Raised in Norwich since age four, Pat was known by many from an early age as her parents, Charlie and Lee Griffis, built and ran Griff’s Diner – a popular spot during its day, now Mary’s on the Corner. Soon after graduating from Norwich High School she married William A. Cusack who predeceased her. In 1979 she married Ralph St. Denny, founder of the Norwich Pennysaver, who brought her great joy and happiness.
Prior to her children being born Pat worked for Norwich Eaton Pharmaceuticals and as they grew older she would help her parents at their diner or at the Legion Park at Chenango Lake. This was followed by employment as office manager for Daniel Mikonen, DDS and then gave of her time to become involved with more charitable roles.
Perhaps her most fulfilling was her involvement with the Catholic Charities Domestic Violence Program having helped in its’ creation and in becoming one of the first certified mediators in New York State. Always one for having a good time she was the chairperson for her high school’s 50th and 55th class reunions.
Artistic pursuits were also always part of Pat’s life, from water color painting, needle work, and more, the results of which are proudly on display in the homes of numerous friends and family members. Home improvements and gardening were also passions of hers and she took great pleasure in the gardens she and Ralph created at the home they basically gutted and expanded over the years.
Pat also enjoyed travel, her fondest memories of which were the many trips she and Ralph made to Puerto Rico, Florida, San Francisco, numerous National Pennysaver Association Conventions and to Cincinnati to visit family. Though, given her near boundless energy for shopping and great food, Pat’s family would sometimes lovingly joke that these were the real motivation for her visits. In recent years, her sister and friends greatly enjoyed their frequent outings to Turning Stone Casino Resort for food, fun, and gaming.
Throughout her life Pat truly had many fulfilling interests, but none more than her unconditional dedication to her family and friends. Those who knew her best knew she had a huge heart, an ever open-mind, and a willingness to help in whatever way she could to those in need. These acts of kindness and support were done in a very discreet manner.
Pat will truly be missed by many as she was always there for those she loved and cared for. Be it with a simple hug, or offering a compassionate ear…even if it was a phone call very late at night.
In addition to her son, William and his wife Betsy Cusack of West Chester, Ohio; Pat leaves behind two step sons, Mark St. Denny of St. Petersburg, Florida, and David (Robyn) St. Denny of Roxbury, Connecticut. Pat is also survived by five grand-children: Brian and Rachel Cusack, Brandon St. Denny, Travis and Stephanie St. Denny and their mom Beth Kelly; two siblings, sister Gail and her husband Ron Annese of Norwich and brother Tom and his wife Venna Griffis of Loveland, Colorado; a nephew, nieces, and many others who, given their special relationship with Pat, felt she was like their second Mom.
Pat was predeceased by her son Michael St. Denny and her husband, Ralph St. Denny whom she adored.
Friends may call at the R.J. Fahy Funeral Home Friday, December 13 from 4 to 6 p.m. Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Mt. Hope Cemetery with Rev. Stephen Reese, Pastor of the Columbus Community Church, officiating.
Memorial donations can be made to Roots and Wings, 34 – 36 Berry Street, Norwich or to a charity of ones’ choice.