Obituary of Patricia A. Gavaghen

Patricia Ann Gavaghen (nee Ryan) passed away peacefully on January 13, 2025 after talking with her long-deceased husband, Big Mike, and sighing contentedly. She stood only 4-foot-10 at the end, and most of that was heart -- a heart that finally came to a well-earned rest. Pat was five months into the 90th year of a life well lived. She and Big Mike were together for 39 years, and weathered their share of challenges with faith and good humor. All eight of their kids have been near her in these closing weeks, and have been brought closer to each other in their love and concern. The roll call: Michael, Liz, Cathie, Peter, Tom, Dennis, Patty, and Rich. These eight would have been a handful of trouble for any mother, but they were usually kept in line by the prospects of a sharp Pat Gavaghen knuckle or an even sharper Pat Gavaghen letter in the mail. Grieving sons- and daughters-in-law include Noel, Tommy Van Doran (who is swapping stories with Pat at this very moment!), Kathy, Jane, Diane, Tony Prata, and Judy. Nineteen beloved grandchildren are equally heartbroken. Just ask Chris, Colleen, Sam, Tommy, Joey, Maria, JR, Jimmy, Matt, Kerry, Steven, Kimmie, Brendan, Denny, Lauren, Anthony, Alyssa, Kaitlyn or Erica. Great grandchildren include Gavin, Jared, Elijah, Kayleigh, Mia, Berlin, DeAndre, James, and Justin. Pat is also survived by two brothers, Richie Ryan and Jim Congable, while siblings Ray, Marion Schweiss, and Jackie helped pave her way forward. One last note: Pat is expected to be named the biggest Met fan in heaven, snatching the title from her father, Michael "Ray" Ryan. Viewing will be at the William E. Law Funeral Home (1 Jerusalem Ave, Massapequa, NY 11758) on Sunday, January 19th, from 2:00 to 6:00 PM. Funeral Mass will take place on Monday, January 20th, at 9:45 AM at Our Lady of Assumption Church (1 Molloy Street, Copiague, NY 11726). In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, to help provide houses for 9/11 heroes and other first responders.