Patricia Ann Whitman passed away peacefully on January 16, 2026 and is now safely at home in Heaven. She lived a life defined not by grand gestures, but by quiet strength, quiet faith, steady kindness, and a deep devotion to the people she loved.
Born on October 22, 1953, Patricia was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Dona Fortescue, and her older brother, Ronald Fortescue. She is survived by her beloved husband of 46 years, Thomas; her three children, Christi (John), Tammy (Tim), and Bill (Steph); her cherished grandchildren, TJ, Bryson, Alexis, Kristin, Brittina, Arlynn, Ryanna, Quinn, and Carsyn, who were the great joy of her life; great grandchildren, and her younger siblings, Gary (Debbie) Fortescue and Kathy (Wayne) Vinzant.
Patricia lived simply and beautifully.
She found contentment in the essentials of life, embracing what mattered most without fuss or pretension. Few things mattered to her more than her family, and nothing mattered more than her grandchildren, whom she loved deeply and without reservation. Beneath her gentle manner was a fierce protectiveness for those she loved, and she stood her ground whenever her family or friends needed her. Her loyalty was unwavering, and her love was expressed not only through tenderness, but occasionally through fierce advocacy and resolve.
Patricia also found joy in moments of laughter and adventure. She especially cherished trips to Hawaii, where she delighted in the beauty of the landscape and the warmth of the sun. Closer to home, she found camaraderie through the Classical Glass Corvette Club, where she and her husband shared group outings and events that became lasting memories filled with laughter and dear, lifelong friendships. These experiences brought her happiness through the simple act of sharing time with the people, places, and moments she loved.
She also took great pride in her work with the Tacoma Police Department, where she served on the administrative staff in the Office of the Chief. Her professionalism and quiet competence made her a trusted presence and a valued colleague. She believed in service, in doing one’s job well, and in supporting others behind the scenes without needing recognition.
Patricia’s life was marked by gentleness, humility, and an unwavering sense of responsibility to those around her. She did not seek attention, but she leaves behind something far more lasting: a legacy of love, steadiness, and devotion that will continue through her family and all who knew her.
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered, now resting in the perfect peace of heaven with Jesus.
Shared Memories
Words of love and remembrance from family and friends.
What a Beautiful example of Pat’s life. It was exactly how she lived and her wonderful values. Family was her first priority. Always! She lived life at its simplest but fullest! We will miss her so much. ❤️
Barb and Gary
Patty had a beautiful smile and infectious laughter. She brought stories of her Children and grandchildren and of course Tommy😊She was loved by the Corvette Community and we cherished many fun trips. Patty, Kenny, and Bill will be smiling on us from HeAven. We Love you Patty.
K Walter
Pat was very special person. Her love for her family will be chrushed forever. She will be remembered by her Corvette family for her caring spirit & ready smile. We will miss her but know she is in a better place. Love & miss you Pat.
D & J Korn
Pat we will.miss your smile and laughter.My Best friend She was the first friend I had moving to wa in 80s
We would talk for hours on end when we did not live close ,she had a Great way to put life in perspective for me and also there to help when I needed someone to talk about life ,
I will miss her forever and now i have a special angel looking down on me .
Tom, you are a blessing for all you have done .
❤ sandy & phil
Sandy & phil
I'll Miss Her Funny Smart A#@ Quick Humor, Ironic How We All Became Friends. Bless Her 💓🙏 Prayers for you and your family Tom🙏
Treasa Wa.State🫶
She will be missed by all who knew her. Our heartfelt condolences to Tom and the family. God Bless, rest easy in the Lord Pat.
Bill &Chris Alred
Pat will be missed by all that knew her. She was so much fun to party and travel with. CGCC offered so many opportunities for all of us to make lifelong friends. She was always laughing and enjoying life. Lots of love being sent to Tom & family.🩷
Barb & Tom from Heaven
Hi Tom , sorry for your loss. You have been a great husband, and great caretaker. I will call you soon. Take care. Love you bud. Nick.
Nick & Pati
My most sincere condolences to family and friends. Every encounter with Pat was a pleasure and lasting memory. Rest in peace, Pat.
Scott McEachran
This was the worst thing to hear and im sorry for everyone's loss. I have so many memories growing up around the neighborhood with Billy and the family. You guys always had an open door for us neighborhood kids. I will forever cherish my childhood, having Tom and Pat like a 2nd set of parents was a blessing 🙏❤️ I remember Pat making us lunch and always making sure us kids were takin care of and always having a great sense of humor. You've both had lasting impacts on me that you probably never even knew. Over the years I've thought about you guys often. Today my heart hurts for all of you. Gone but never forgotten
Love you Momma Pat 🌻
Your neighborhood boy, Robbie Chacon
Rob Chacon
Hi!
My name is Monty and growing up I was best friends with her son, Bill. I lived right across the street. I spent sooooooo many days over at their home and have so many lovely memories from my childhood that include Patricia and Tom. She always treated me as part of the family and I will remember that forever. She was always eager to feed us growing young boys and was always willing to allow me to come over for sleepovers. I’m sad to hear of her passing but take comfort in the fact that she is with the father now. All of my love goes out to the Whitman family. Thank you for letting me be a part of it.
Monty Hathaway