Patricia Ann McNelis

Patricia "Patty" "Pat" Ann Cosentino McNelis

With heavy and hopeful hearts, we announce the passing of Patricia Ann Cosentino McNelis, a beloved mother, friend, sister, and beautiful soul. Surrounded by her daughter Johanna, Johanna’s father Kevin, and a devoted medical team, Patricia was called home by God, leaving behind a lasting legacy of love, creativity, and strength.

Patricia was born on February 1, 1952, to Anna and Alfred Cosentino in Brooklyn, New York. Growing up in Brooklyn, she developed a deep connection to her family, food, creativity and the arts. From an early age, she was in the kitchen with her mother, learning the art of Italian cooking. By the time she was seven, Patricia was preparing meals for her family, a skill she would carry with her throughout her life. Her passion for Italian cuisine remained a defining part of her character, and she passed that love down to her daughter Johanna and son-in-law Jason. Patricia was known for making “comfort food” and enjoyed sharing the art of Italian cooking, including introducing Jason to the cherished tradition of the Seven Fishes at Christmas. If you knew Pat, she was ordering “one of everything” from the menu, with an extra to-go order for late-night snacks.

Patricia had a fierce love for the arts. Some of her most cherished times growing up were going to the theater with her brother, Al Cosentino, and her best friend, Vicki Goldstein. Together, they pursued adventures in New York, living life to the fullest and enjoying every moment together.

Patricia’s journey took her to Japan, where she and Kevin lived for ten years after their wedding in Brooklyn. While there, she taught English, honed her skills as an Ikebana floral arranger and even sold her own recipe for Italian sausage, a testament to her resourcefulness and ingenuity. While living in Tokyo, Patricia pursued her passion for floral design at the renowned International Ichiyo School of Ikebana, where she reached the “Instructor” level, signifying mastery within the Ichiyo School. This prestigious accomplishment involves years of coursework, demonstrating a deep understanding of the Ichiyo style, technique and ability to teach others. Her artistry in floral design earned her numerous awards, and carried on to her time in the states.

When Johanna was born, Patricia fully embraced her most cherished role as a devoted mother. Alongside Johanna’s father, Kevin, Patricia took Johanna on unforgettable trips to Spain, parts of Asia with beloved friends from Japan, skiing in Colorado and adventures in Australia, sharing their love for exploring the world. Upon returning to the United States, Patricia poured her energy into her family and community, always giving back to the places she called home, including Mamaroneck and West Haven. As president of both local garden clubs, she led floral workshops for seniors and children, imparting her passion for flowers and gardening. Patricia became deeply involved in Johanna’s Girl Scout troop, where she incorporated her love for floral arranging into the troop’s activities. Patricia also had a special fondness for camping with her dear family friends, the Meuses, where she would prepare delicious Italian meals, cooked on a Coleman gas stove. Of course, using her mother’s pots and pans.

One of Patricia’s favorite activities was making Halloween costumes with Johanna. Some favorites were “a Hippie” and “Lady Gaga’s Meat Dress” (crafted with fabric that resembled meat, of course!). Patricia made it a priority to introduce Johanna to the magic of Broadway theater, a love she had shared with her brother, Al. Over the years, this tradition continued, with Patricia, Johanna’s husband Jason, and Kevin all enjoying the theater and concerts together. Some of their happiest memories were made during trips to Manhattan to see Bette Midler in Hello Dolly, shows at the Goodspeed Theater in Connecticut, Madison Square Garden for Billy Joel and The Who and The Bacon Brothers at Alive at Five in Stamford.

Patricia’s love for her family knew no bounds. She adored the family dog, Daisy, a chubby basset hound who quickly won her heart. Eventually, Pat also adopted a cat named Sammy, who was in need of a home and became a cherished companion to the family. She delighted in showering her daughter, son-in-law, and their beloved dog Stella with creative and thoughtful gifts every Christmas. Stella received her very own custom stocking, and Patricia loved taking Johanna and Jason to see the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. Birthdays were an occasion that Patricia cherished, always going above and beyond in planning celebrations filled with love, laughter, and joy. Although Patricia would tell you she wasn’t a baker (she hated measuring so precisely!) she made Johanna’s birthday rainbow cake every July 3rd, a tradition that Johanna has kept close to her heart all these years and plans to continue in honor of her mother. Patricia’s creativity and planning skills came through together with Kevin, planning Johanna and Jason’s dream wedding in June of 2018 at the Briarcliff Manor, New York.

Through it all, Patricia remained a woman of faith, trusting in God’s plan for her life. In her final years, Patricia was surrounded by the love of two incredible caregivers, whom she grew fond of, while remaining committed to her independence.

Patricia will be remembered for her radiant spirit, her zest for life, and her unwavering devotion to her family. Her love, light, and impact will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Patricia is survived by her daughter Johanna McNelis Clement, Johanna’s father Kevin McNelis, her son-in-law Jason Clement, and her brother Anthony Cosentino. Her passing leaves all that knew her with incredible sadness, but her legacy and light will live on forever in our hearts.