WATERVILLE – Patricia Cronin Packard, 93, of Unity, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023 in Waterville.

She was born on Feb. 7, 1930, in Skowhegan, to James Cronin and Mary Ellen (Paradis) Cronin. She was raised in Skowhegan by her beloved uncle and aunt, Carl “Chibby” Paradis Sr. and Sara Paradis. She attended Skowhegan schools and graduated from Skowhegan High School in 1948. She graduated from Gorham State Teachers College in Gorham, Maine in 1953. Her first teaching position was in Unity; she also taught in Skowhegan, Old Lyme, Conn.; and Stamford, Conn. schools.

She married Crosby Packard on July 22, 1961. After raising her family, she returned to teaching in Unity, until she retired in 1992. She was a cub scout den mother, active on school committees, and volunteered in the schools. She enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, politics, and classic movies. Her dogs were her loyal companions, especially Digby and Jake. In her retirement she enjoyed spending time with her fellow retired teachers.

She was predeceased by her husband in 1994, an infant son James Crosby Packard, two brothers Carl Paradis, Jr. and James Cronin, her sister Mayna Damren, and a nephew Carl Paradis III.

She is survived by her son David Packard and daughter-in-law Vicki Packard of St. Albans, her daughters Deborah Packard and Melissa Packard, both of Unity; her granddaughters, Ashley Graham and her husband Matthew of Palmyra, Sara Packard Mitchell and her husband Riley of Boothbay; her great grandsons, Levi and Luka Graham of Palmyra.

The family would like to thank Continuing Care Lakewood and Beacon Hospice for their care and support.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday Dec. 7 at 9 a.m. at Notre Dame de Lourdes Catholic Church 273 Water St, Skowhegan.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Smart and Edwards Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers,

donations may be made

in her name to:

Humane Society

Waterville Area

100 Webb Road

Waterville, ME 04901



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