June 18, 2023

Patricia M. Keal, 85, Clayton, formerly of Voorheesville, passed away on Sunday, June 18, 2023, at home surrounded by her children after battling cancer.

Pat was born in 1938, the daughter of Dominic and Frances Lynch. She graduated from Poughkeepsie High School in 1956 and received a degree from Norwich University in 1958. On May 18, 1974, she married John C. Keal in Wappingers Falls, New York. She held the position of office manager at John Keal Music Co. for over 30 years. Pat and her husband John played a significant role in establishing school music programs in the capital district. In 1984, they purchased a residence in Clayton. Pat was an active member of Saint Mary’s Church in Clayton and also enjoyed spending time in Parrish, Florida.

Pat had a deep passion for music, engaging in games with friends, tending to her garden, and being near the St. Lawrence River. However, her greatest source of joy came from spending time with her family. Pat is survived by her sister Fran Lynch of Clayton and her five children: William B. and Ida Keal of Troy, Richard A. and Nancy Fenwick of Clifton Park, Paul Fenwick of Saint Marys, KS, Barbara and Scott Taylor of Port Ewen, and Andrew J. Keal and Heidi Kretser of Saranac Lake. She is also survived by twelve grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Saint Mary’s Parish nurses Mary Kleinhans, Jennifer Lucia, and Wanda Cavanaugh, as well as Jefferson County home health LPN Shannon Priest and Delisa Drewes for their unwavering support and care for Pat. A special thank you is also extended to their dear Aunt Frannie for her love and support.

A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, June 24, at 10 AM at St. Mary's Church in Clayton, followed by burial in St. Mary's Cemetery. Calling hours will take place on Friday, June 23, from 5-7 PM at Cummings Funeral Service, Inc. in Clayton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint Mary’s Church at 521 James St., Clayton, NY 13624. Online condolences for the family can be posted at www.cummingsfuneral.com.