Patricia Thomas

MADISON-Patricia Laird Thomas, 94, died on July 17, 2014 at Capitol Lakes in Madison.

Patsy Burke, daughter of Ann and Paul Burke, was born December 1, 1919 and grew up in Green Bay. She attended Green Bay East, Wellesley College, and National College of Education. In 1942 she married Richard Laird of Marshfield.

Pat and Dick moved to Madison in 1956. Pat loved the community and was very active in the Hill Farms neighborhood, First Congregational Church, PEO, Attic Angel Association, Friends of the Arboretum, and as a docent for the Elvejhem Art Center. She loved reading, art, and music. Yet most of all, she was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother.

Pat is survived by her sister Adrienne (Bill) Schmitz of Green Bay, daughters Jessica (Jim) Doyle of Madison, Melissa Laird (Charles Overall) of Seattle, Maggie Laird (Todd Zimberg) of Seattle, son Richard (Janet) Laird of Virginia, grandchildren Gus Doyle, Gabe (Carrie) Doyle, Carlos Overall, Kassa Overall, and Chloe Zimberg, great-grandchildren Lily and Lucy Doyle, Asiah Doyle, and many nieces and nephews.

Pat is preceded in death by three loving husbands, Dick Laird, Leroy Luberg, and Claire Thomas, and two sisters, Meredith Rose and Christine Nelson. Although widowed three times, Pat always kept her cheerful spirit, graciousness, and gentle sense of humor.

A private family burial will be held. The family wishes to thank the dedicated staff at Capitol Lakes Assisted Living and Agrace Hospice for their great kindness and care for Pat.