Patricia Flynn Obituary

Patricia Flynn, 83, of Hermitage, Tenn., and formerly of Wyoming, said her Irish goodbye on Aug. 24, 2025.

She was born May 13, 1942, in Dover, N.J., to the late Thomas and Ruth Flynn.

A proud graduate of St. Mary's High School, Patricia lived a life full of adventure and passion. Before retiring, she was known for her love of travel, having explored many parts of the United States, Europe and, of course, Ireland. Patricia was a regular at the Saxton Pavilion and later the Jewish Community Center, where she maintained her love for fitness and built many cherished friendships.

Patricia was a dedicated member of St. Stanislaus Church in Wilkes-Barre and later St. Monica's in Wyoming, where she was deeply involved in her community. She was a lover of literature, particularly the New York Times, which she read every Sunday, and was an avid reader who always had a book on hold at the Osterhout Library.

Her deep love for New York City led her to frequent trips there, sometimes solo, to shop and attend theater performances. She especially enjoyed her annual birthday trips to NYC with Martz Trailways, embracing the city's energy and culture, never hesitating to join the celebrations at St. Patrick's Day parades or Times Square on New Year's Eve. Patricia also visited a beloved church in Harlem during these trips, reflecting her adventurous and independent spirit.

Patricia began her career as a legal secretary, working for several lawyers and forming lifelong friendships, one of which led to marriage. In her second act, Patricia worked for the Office of the Inspector General's Welfare Fraud division as a clerk typist in Wilkes-Barre, a job she enjoyed and where she made even more lasting friendships. She retired in 2007 after a fulfilling and well-respected career.

Patricia's love for cooking was also a defining trait — her cookbook collection was vast, and her tiramisu remains a family favorite. For many years, she was the dedicated secretary of the Flynn family reunion, a role she cherished deeply.

She is survived by her beloved sister, Erin Gilroy, and brother-in-law, Steve Gilroy; nephews, Steven Gilroy Jr. and Tom Gilroy; and great-niece, Avery Gilroy; and great-nephew, Evan Gilroy. Patricia was deeply grateful for the love and support she received from the Reese family — Gary, Patty, Deann, Henry and Avery — as well as her best friend, Marcia Ebert; and cousins, Veronica and Jim Heston, who helped her through difficult times.

Patricia will be missed by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, adventure and an unwavering zest for life.

Celebration of Patricia's Life will take place on Tuesday in the Church of St. Nicholas-St. Mary, 226 S. Washington St., Wilkes-Barre. The visitation begins at 10 a.m. and is followed by a funeral Mass at 11 a.m.

Donations to the Alzheimer's Association are preferred and will honor Patricia's memory.

Share memories and condolences with Patricia's family at mjmclaughlin.com.