Patricia Ann Thomas of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Ann Arbor, and Whitmore Lake, age 81, passed away Sunday, July 12, 2026, at the Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born December 21, 1944, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of William Edwin and Adeline Marie (Shanahan) Rowan, Jr.
Patricia graduated from Ann Arbor Pioneer High School, class of 1963. She attended both the Faith Baptist Church in Chelsea, and Dexter Gospel Church. She worked in Food Service at the University of Michigan. Patricia had a lifelong love of singing and Patsy Cline. Her karaoke friends and family fondly called her “Patsy.” Patricia was a spark of sunshine, always with a big smile that lit up a room. She was a people person and cared deeply for others, putting them before herself.
She is survived by her daughter, Laura (Tom) Rayer of Dexter; son, James (Jennifer) Thomas, Jr. of Lewisburg, Pennsylvania; brother, Richard (Esterlina) Rowan of Chelsea; sisters, Suzanne (David) Pace of Dexter, and Diane (Dave) Vertican of Gaylord; six grandchildren, Heather (Izik), Thomas (Jeena), Justin (Jessica), Jordan (Troy), Jenna (Renfield), and Julia (Mitchell); five great-grandchildren, with two on the way; and many dearly loved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, July 16, 2026, noon, at Dexter Gospel Church, with Pastor Josh Patrick officiating. A private burial will be at Bethlehem Cemetery in Ann Arbor. Memorial contributions may be made to Dexter Gospel Church, 2253 Baker Rd., Dexter, MI 48130.
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