Patricia M. Cotter

Patricia M. Cotter, (Callanan), 90, formerly of The Seasons in East Greenwich, passed peacefully on Thursday August 6, 2020 at Saint Elizabeth's Home in East Greenwich.  She was the beloved wife of the late Joseph Cotter.  Born in Providence, Patricia was the daughter of the late Francis and Emily (Devine) Callanan.

In her early years Patricia took her solemn vows and became a member of the Sisters of the Cross and Passion in Providence.  The Sisters of the Cross and Passion was largely a teaching order that was renowned in England and Ireland for their many schools. Under her religious name, Sr. Bernadette, she taught elementary students at the Assumption School in Providence.  After leaving her religious life, Pat taught for decades in the Exeter -West Greenwich School District, teaching 1 ^st and 2 ^nd grades. Pat was known as a compassionate and loving teacher to her elementary students and she especially cherished her time spent teaching. Pat also mentored many new teachers during her time at EWG.

Pat and her husband Joe spent countless vacations along the coast of Maine with their beloved dog, Susie. Pat was a Master Gardner, voracious reader, and loved to cook and spend time celebrating with friends and neighbors.  After retirement, Pat enjoyed frequent trips to Ireland to visit with many friends and family. Pat gave her time to numerous organizations as a volunteer, primarily at The McCauley House in Providence, St. Elizabeth's Home in East Greenwich, and tutoring students when she was able.  A devout Catholic, Pat also was a volunteer at numerous churches throughout her years. Her generosity of spirit, time and love was infectious among her friends and family.

Pat leaves behind her beloved friends and caregivers Tonya and Michael Hoegen, and was Aunt to many loved nieces and nephews.  She is predeceased by all of her siblings.  Patricia was the caring sister to the late Andrew, Joseph, William, and Thomas Callanan,  Sr. Frances Callanan, F.M.M., and Rita Trenn all of RI.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday August 12 ^th at 10:00 am at Our Lady of Mercy Church, 65 Third St., East Greenwich. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in her name to The Seasons, 5 Saint Elizabeth’s Way, East Greenwich RI 02818, which is a member of the Care Link organization, a nonprofit network of partners collaborating to ensure high-quality health care for RI adult communities.