Patsy H. Mares

Patsy H. Mares, 88, of North Port, Florida, passed away peacefully by natural causes surrounded by her family on December 18, 2024. 

She was born to Raymond and Leona Allen Hunter on August 20, 1936, in Beckley, West Virginia, where she spent her childhood. After completing her post-secondary education at Beckley College, she moved to the Washington DC area to pursue her career with the US Department of Agriculture and later the Department of Commerce (Census Bureau).

Patsy will be remembered as someone who had an easy smile and offered love and kindness to others in many ways. She was a devout Christian and enjoyed teaching young children at Sunday School for many years. Her charitable work continued throughout her life, with her most recent work as an active member of the Women’s Auxiliary of the American Legion in Venice, Florida. She served in a number of roles including Chaplain where she regularly visited the sick offering  emotional and spiritual support. Patsy loved cooking, gardening, and socializing usually around a great meal.

Patsy married her loving husband, Thomas Mares, on June 6, 1987, who preceded her in death on December 16, 2022. She was also preceded in death by her brother and sister-in-law, Paul and Loretta Hunter.

She is survived by her son Nicholas (Karen) Fortunato, daughters Linda Fortunato and Teresa Fortunato; grandsons Daniel Compton, Nicholas Fortunato, and Joseph Fortunato (Karlie Vann); as well as 5 great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Patsy may be made to the ASPCA: ASPCA Tributes, 520 8th Ave., 7th Floor, New York, NY 10018 (800) 628-0028.

Services and interment will be held privately. Farley Funeral Home, Venice Chapel, is assisting the family.