Patricia Ward O'Dea

Patricia Ward O'Dea, 85, peacefully passed away in the presence of her loving family at her home in Wilkes-Barre on December 12, 2024. 

Born July 14, 1939 in Wilkes-Barre she was the youngest of four children of the late Joseph and Ruth Burritt Ward. 

Pat graduated from E.L. Meyers High School, where she was a majorette and gymnast. 

After marrying the love of her life, Jerry O'Dea, on June 4, 1960, they relocated numerous times to different states for Jerry's work. At twenty-nine, Pat was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. While she suffered constant pain, she was not one to complain. She always wanted to be part of the party. Pat became a widow at thirty-nine. Left to raise a 16-year-old and a 1-year-old, they moved back to Wilkes-Barre to be close to family.

Her husband Gerald 'Jerry' O'Dea; sister Mildred Jacobs; and brothers Joseph and Jack Ward; and her beloved dog Luckie preceded her in death. 

Her daughters Colleen and her husband Steve Bellamy, and Kelly and her husband Dave Morris; granddaughters Meghan Morris, Rachel Bellamy, Kayla Bellamy, and Lauryn Morris; and numerous nieces and nephews that she loved as her own will miss her very much. 

Celebration of Pat's Life takes place on Tuesday, January 21, 2025. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 AM in the Church of Saint Nicholas-Saint Mary, 226 South Washington Street in Wilkes-Barre.

Donations to Northeast Sight Services, 1825 Wyoming Ave, Exeter, 18643 are preferred and will honor Pat's memory.

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