Following a rich and wonderful life, Patricia Gafney Draper, age 91, of Newtown, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2021, with her family by her side. Pat will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her, especially her devoted husband, Thomas Draper, who provided his best friend, and the love of his life, with unconditional love, tenderness, and support through almost 69 years of marriage.

Pat was born on August 26, 1929, in Queens, New York, to Leo and Julie Gafney. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her seven children, Kathleen Mount (Steven) of Westerville, Ohio, Mary Maloney (James) of Danbury, Joan Draper (Gary Townsend) of Brookfield, Martha Odell (Don) of Darien, Donna Draper (Alan Chapin) of Newtown, Rosemary Gallant (Jonathan) of London, England, and Joseph Draper (Mieko) of Newtown and Fairfield; by 21 grandchildren, Rachel Hofstetter, Katherine and Thomas Mount, Elizabeth Betras, Adele Thomas, Anna and Ellen Maloney, Monica Kraft, Victoria Townsend, Jimmy and Annie Odell, Jacqueline, Mary Kate, Michael and Christopher George, Melissa and Martha Gallant, and Suzuran, Rikto, May, and Kent Draper; seven great-grandchildren and another arriving in December; her brother, Leo Gafney (Judy) of Lakeville, Conn.; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her parents, her sister, Joan Crowley; her son, Thomas Draper III; and her granddaughters, Hannah George and Rebecca Draper Townsend.

Pat graduated from Mary Louis Academy in Forest Hills, N.Y., and the College of New Rochelle, making many lifelong friendships at both schools. She then received a Masters in Education from City College of New York and taught elementary school for several years, before becoming a full time mother. When her children were grown she went back to school and earned a Masters in Professional Accounting from the University of Hartford, and embarked on a second rewarding career as a CPA. A lifelong learner, voracious reader, and enthusiastic traveler, she instilled her love of reading, travel, and education in her children and grandchildren. She was a wonderful cook and a warm, gracious hostess who loved to entertain.

The family would like to thank the wonderful aides who cared for Pat with such kindness and compassion during her final years.

Calling hours will be from 4 to 7 pm on Friday, June 18, 2021, at St Rose of Lima Church, 46 Church Hill Road, Newtown. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St Rose at 1 pm on Saturday, June 19. Arrangements are being handled by Honan Funeral Home.

If anyone would like to make a donation in Pat’s name, please consider the memorial fund at St Rose Church (strosechurch.com) or The Museum of Natural History (amnh.org).