Patricia Natalie Porter (Perry) died on Tuesday, January 5, 2021, following a period of declining health. The loss has been profoundly heartbreaking for so very many, as Pat was cherished by those that knew her and those fortunate to witness her love for others and her pure selflessness.
Pat was predeceased by her parents, Dorothy “Dot” Lenore Callahan and Bernard L. Perry Sr., an Army WWII veteran; her brother Bernard “Bern” L. Perry Jr.; and her cherished friend and partner in crime, Elizabeth (Liz) Harris. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, William (Bill) R. Porter (MCPO USN RET); her siblings, Robert S. Perry and Maureen Ostrowski; her children, Tyler Joseph Porter Sr. and Alisha Mae Porter, her grandchildren, Tyler J. Porter Jr., Kylie A. Porter, as well as a large extended family that held her in the highest esteem and lovingly referred to her as “Aunt Pat.”
Born on October 5, 1946 in Norwich, CT and raised in Preston, CT. Pat attended the Norwich Free Academy for high school and was a proud graduate of the New London Academy of Hairdressing. Pat and future husband Bill met as members of the wedding party of mutual friends. After they married and Bill’s Naval service brought the family to Charleston, SC, Pat embraced the role of military wife and homemaker. During Bill’s lengthy submarine deployments, she cared for their two children, ran the household, paid the bills, and gave of her time, including helping other military wives. Despite the workload, Pat frequently expressed her gratitude, as it was her dream to be able to stay home and raise her children full time.
Pat and Bill eventually moved to Cherry Hill, NJ to begin the civilian chapter of their lives. Pat was the consummate cheerleader for her children, spending countless hours working the booster club for Cherry Hill East wrestling and proudly serving as the most devoted Brownie and Girl Scout leader for the girls at Cooper School Elementary. Once both of her children were in school, Pat returned to her professional endeavors as an Activity Director at The Tender, an adult day-care center in Moorestown. Everyone she encountered there adored her, as she approached each client and caregiver interaction with compassion and kindness.
Raised Roman Catholic, Pat’s faith remained strong throughout her life. During her time in Charleston, Pat joined the Community of Christ Church and would later answer the calling to become one of the first female ordained ministers at the Woodbury, NJ branch. Pat was a treasured resource of religious and spiritual guidance for many, and she found true joy in serving youth ministry, including teaching Sunday school and vacation bible school classes.
A devoted mother not only to her children but also to her extended family, Aunt Pat’s greatest pride was caring for others. Always willing to lend an ear, always welcoming with open arms, Aunt Pat will be deeply missed.
Services will be held following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fertig Funeral Home, LLC
