Mrs. Patricia Ann Mears-Johnson, affectionately known as “Pat” or “Miss Pat,” passed away peacefully on Feb. 10, 2024, in Williamsburg, at the age of 81 years young. She was a remarkable woman whose life was filled with love and compassion.
Born on Oct. 20, 1942, in Guilford, Patricia was the beloved daughter of the late George F.D. Mears and the late Cora Ann Martin Mears. She was preceded in death by her brother, Gene Mears, and sister, Rose Marie Annis.
In the 1960s, Pat embarked on an extraordinary journey, living in Africa for several years and exploring its wonders. She visited breathtaking places like Victoria Falls, Botswana, Madagascar, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and the Serengeti, where her deep appreciation for animals and nature flourished. Pat cherished this time in her life and fondly spoke of her African adventures. She had an unparalleled passion for geography and was always eager to keep up with world events. From a young age, Pat’s love for gardening was a passion and it would be amiss not to mention her prized rose gardens.
Pat’s entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering compassion led her to become the dedicated owner of Pat’s Home for the Elderly on Market Street in Pocomoke City, Md. As a nurse, she showed genuine love and empathy for her patients, standing as a beacon of support during their times of need. Pat was ahead of her time, breaking boundaries as a woman in business, and she achieved fulfillment and independence through her hard work and determination. She had an unwavering commitment to the elderly. She was an advocate and voice for so many.
Once Pat sold her business, she retired to Guilford, where she continued her advocacy for animals, her love of flowers and nature, and caring for her family.
The Eastern Shore of Virginia was her birthplace and always home to her. Patricia remained active in the community until her illness in March of 2021, at which time she took residence in Williamsburg with her daughter, Julie, who oversaw her daily care.
Above all, Pat’s heart belonged to her family. She loved her children, Julie Nicole Mason-Casey, Mark Mears Mason, and David Leroy Johnson, and her grandchildren, Gabrielle Lynn Mason, Chad Mason, Mason A. Casey, and Cora H. Casey, with a boundless affection that extended to her great-grandchildren, AmeriKiss Kromer, Kai Kromer, Erick Stevens Jr., Blu Stevens, and Rocky Stevens.
She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Sarah Mears, and nieces and nephews, George Wayne Mears, Harvey Mears, Donna Mears, MH Annis, Vivian Annis, and Mickey Annis.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Pat’s caregivers, Melissa Clarke, Pam Sullivan, Anita Jenkins, and Lori Horsley. These compassionate and kindhearted individuals provided unwavering support and care to Pat during her final years. The family would also like to thank Hospice of Williamsburg and the staff for providing comfort and care for her.
Patricia Ann Mears-Johnson’s legacy will forever shine as a testament to the power of love, compassion, the pursuit of one’s dreams, and the elegance she brought to every moment. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, Feb. 16, at 2 p.m. at Guilford Church in Bloxom. Interment will follow in the Guilford Church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Pat’s honor to Worcester County Humane Society to support causes dear to her heart.
Rest in eternal peace, dearest Patricia. Your love, light, and timeless elegance will forever guide us.
Arrangements are by the Thornton Funeral Home in Parksley.
