Patricia Ellen (McGowan) Thomas, 91 was born in Detroit, Michigan on June 6, 1931. She passed into Eternal Life on November 1, 2022, surrounded by her loving children and grandchildren. Her death is preceded by her loving husband Jim Thomas, her parents, Patrick Francis and Helen McGowan and her siblings; John (Margaret), Mary (Bob) Markey, Evelyn (Chet) Derda and Rita. Dear mother of James (JoHanna), Anne (Peter) Veach, Mike (Tricia), Ellen (Mike) Salter, Patti (Chuck) Fox, and Mary Jean Thomas. Loving grandmother of Elizabeth, Evan, Aidan, Grant, Nicole, Brendan, Dominic, Erin, John-Joe, Natalie, Anthony, Madison, Lauren, Michael, Shannon, Meghan, Brianna, Brittany, Ethan, Cullen, Emma, Holly, and Hunter.

Pat was known by many as "Patsy." No one was closer to her heart than Jesus, whom she had an intimate relationship with and served Him all her days. Her Catholic faith was at the heart of how she lived her life and who she was at every moment. She was for giving everyone a "God Bless" on their forehead. If you met her, you were family! Pat had an exceptional memory! She prayed to all the saints and taught her family about their lives. It was fitting that our Lord called her home on All Saints Day!

Pat entered the convent in her early 20's. After some time and many prayers, it became clear that God was calling her out of the convent. She was being called to get married and have children.

Pat studied at The University of Detroit, and she taught at Our Lady of Grace. She always prayed for her students which she called her "little lambs". While teaching she met Jim from Ironwood, Michigan on a blind date through her best friend. They quickly fell in love, got married and started a family. They had six children in eight years.

Pat and Jim owned Thomas Hallmark in Westland Mall for 20 years. Mom ran the business while Jim worked at Ford Motor Company, and he worked at the store on evenings and weekends. This was truly a family-run business, which created many lasting memories.

Their first home was in Westland, but as the family grew, they moved to Dearborn to attend the Divine Child Catholic Church and Schools. Jim and Pat created a home filled with great joy where all were welcomed and loved.

Being an American Citizen made her most proud. She loved this great country! However, Pat's Irish heritage brought her great joy and she loved to share this with others (even those who "became" Irish by association with her). She was so proud to become an Irish citizen at the age of 89! Her family hosted a party in her honor of this joyous occasion! The following year her children honored her life with yet another party for her milestone 90th year of LIFE!

In her life, St. Thérése of Lisieux stated "Once I love, I love forever." Mom reflected this love from the moment she greeted each soul. Her love for others reflected that of Jesus. She spent her days praying for her family, friends and even souls she never met. Once you made her prayer list, it was forever. Mom was loving, sweet, grateful, kind, compassionate and gentle. We will be forever grateful for the life our parents created for us and the love they shared with everyone.

Please consider a donation to Father Solanus Capuchin Charities.