Patricia "Pat" (Joyce) Cunningham

Patricia “Pat” J. Cunningham, 78, a longtime resident of Wilmington, peacefully passed away with her daughter at her side on Tuesday, September 11, 2018.

Patricia was born in Wilmington on February 2, 1940, daughter of the late John and Gladys (Magargal) Joyce, and was a graduate of St. Ann’s School and Ursuline Academy.  She was an active member of St. John the Beloved Church for many years. Pat worked as a receptionist at Ametek and at retail positions, but her most rewarding jobs were homemaker, mother and grandmother.  Patricia enjoyed summers with family and friends at Rehoboth Beach. She embraced her Irish heritage and loved the music and her trips to Ireland, where she connected with family.

 In later years, Patricia returned to her Forty Acres roots, and lived at The Devon. She was a member of St. Ann’s Parish and volunteered at the Adoration Chapel.  Pat was very proud of her grandchildren: Caroline, who attends Delaware Military Academy, and Nicholas, a graduate of DMA and recent appointee to the U.S. Naval Academy.  Some of her happiest times were spent with them attending school and sports events.

Patricia is survived by her daughter, Sue Graham; her grandchildren, Nicholas and Caroline Graham; her sister and brother-in-law, Kathy and Doug Horn; her brother and sister-in-law, Jack and Dee Joyce; her brother-in-law, Paul Hudson; several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her sister, Linda Hudson.  

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the caring staff at Millcroft and Seasons Hospice for their kindness and support.

Family and friends are invited to visit at the Doherty Funeral Home, 1900 Delaware Avenue, Wilmington on Monday, September 17 from 5:00-7:00PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Ann Church, Gilpin Avenue and N. Union Street, Wilmington on Tuesday, September 18 at 11:00AM.  Interment will follow in Cathedral Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Pat’s memory to Delaware Military Academy, 112 Middleboro Road, Wilmington, DE 19804, Ursuline Academy, 1106 Pennsylvania Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19806, or the charity of your choice. 

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