Obituary of Patricia M. Otis

Patricia M. Otis

Patricia M. Otis, 88, of Rome, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025. She was born on December 31, 1936, in Elmira, N.Y., the daughter of the late Arthur and Edna Miller. Patricia was a 1954 graduate of Southside High School in Elmira, N.Y. and in 1958, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree at the State College of Brockport, N.Y. Patricia started her teaching career, teaching elementary school, in Schenectady, N.Y. She married David Otis of Rome on June 25, 1960, in Elmira. After marrying David, she moved to Rome, N.Y. and taught elementary school for the Rome City School District. In the seventies, she decided to further her education and earned a Master of Science degree, at Elmira College, Elmira, N.Y. After earning her Master’s degree, Patricia continued her education in the pursuit of a Doctor’s degree at Cornell University, Ithaca, N.Y. Patricia was a member of Eastern Star and a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). She enjoyed going to the Tuning Stone Casino, playing games, particularly Scrabble, and participating in Trivia Nights. Patricia enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and traveling abroad to Italy and the Soviet Union. She also enjoyed bowling and was a member of several bowling leagues and often traveled to compete in team competitions. Patricia was a lifelong learner and was an avid reader. She enjoyed sharing her knowledge, and would engage others in conversations, particularly in politics and world events. Even though she retired from teaching, she never stopped teaching others.

Patricia is survived by her cherished children, Deborah Otis of Rome, N.Y., Rick and Amy Otis, Holly Springs, N.C., Christine Otis (Rich Faber and her stepson Jason Faber), Naples, FL; two grandchildren, Mary Ashley and Halle Otis; a sister-in-law and brother-in-law Abby and Lynn Morton; and a nephew, Ronald Sweet. She was predeceased by her husband, David, her brother, James Miller and sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Hope and Mark Sweet.

Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Thursday, March 20, 2025, from 3-6 P.M. at Strong-Burns & Sprock Funeral Home 7751 Merrick Road, Rome. A Celebration of Life will follow at 6 P.M. Interment will take place on Friday at 1 P.M. at Woodlawn Cemetery, Elmira N.Y.

Contributions can be made to a library of your choice or to Circus World, 550 Water St., Baraboo, WI 53913-2578.