Patty Connelly's Obituary
Patricia Ann (Marshall) Connelly, age 66, passed away in her sleep on July 14 2024. She was born in Rochester, New York to Robert and Felomena Marshall, lived in Germany as a child for a few years and spent the rest of her life growing up and living in Ventura, Ca. She graduated from Buena High in 1975 and received her BA and teaching Credential from California State University, Northridge. She settled into her calling teaching as a Special Education Teacher for those with moderate/severe disabilities at Rio Mesa High for 36 years. Patricia (Patty) was widowed at 25- her students became her family. She knew no limits in this role. She was a forerunner in the classroom and was known by parents and educators as someone who created unique curriculum/experiences for her students. Patty lived her life out loud and to the fullest. Her sarcastic banter was only surpassed by the extreme love that she had for others, the generosity of her time, money and caring. She was a fierce defender of anyone who had need- especially those of her students at Rio Mesa High.
Unique to Patty was her ability and dedication to more than just a handful of friends. Her friendships extended beyond those with her siblings, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins, to a number of super-close friendships, friendships with her Rio Mesa family, with her "Poolies" and with the adults and participants involved in Special Olympics where she coached and volunteered for over 30 years. She came alongside and supported people wherever she went and in whatever capacity she could.
Patty was preceded in death by her husband Robert Connelly and her parents Robert and Felomena Marshall. She is survived by her sisters Linda Daniels and Mary Smith (husband Mark), her brothers Rob Marshall (wife Denise) and Jeff, and numerous nephews, nieces as well as great nephews and nieces.
Funeral Mass will be on Saturday August 10th, 2:00 PM at Sacred Heart Church: 10800 Henderson Rd, Ventura. Immediately following the Mass there will be a Celebration of Life reception at Arroyo Verde Park, group site name Redwood Glen ($3 to enter the park)
We love you Patty, you left us too soon. We await our reunion with you in Heaven.
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