Patricia K. Greenawalt

Patricia K. Greenawalt, age 81, of Frankfort, IL, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, educator, and friend to all, Patricia lived a life rooted in faith, service, and love.

She was the beloved wife of Paul E. Greenawalt, with whom she shared 59 years of marriage. Together they shared a partnership defined by deep friendship, laughter, and unwavering companionship. They were rarely apart and truly each other’s best friend. Whether traveling on exotic adventures, attending philharmonic concerts hand in hand, or spending leisurely days exploring flea markets and estate sales, Pat and Paul found joy in simply being together.

Pat was most proud of her three sons: James, Paul (Eileen), and Matthew (Susan). Her greatest joy was being “Nanny” to her grandchildren: Conor, Campbell, Emily, Jack, Landon, and Danica. Whether baseball, football, theater, swimming, soccer, or golf, her grandchildren could always count on Nanny and Poppy cheering them on from the stands. Pat also leaves behind her cherished godchildren, Maria (Troy) Baird and Jimmy Griffin, who held a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James J. Griffin and Dorothy A. (Neher) Griffin; her sister Dorothy (Bill) Conroy; and her sister-in-law Terry Judd Griffin.

She is survived by her loving siblings John (Jean), James “Thady” (Diane), Mary, Thom, Kathy (“Ram”) Ramanujam, and Maureen “Rene” (Bob) Mende.

A dedicated teacher and counselor for over 30 years with HS District 218, she touched countless lives through her compassion, guidance, and commitment to students. Outside of her work, she was an avid gardener, finding peace and joy in nurturing beauty and growth.

Patricia lived her faith daily through quiet acts of kindness, embodying the spirit of agape—selfless, unconditional love. She was truly a friend to everyone she met and will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering devotion to family.

Patricia’s legacy lives on in the many lives she shaped, the love she gave freely, and the example of faith and service she leaves behind.

Visitation will be held at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 7659 W. Sauk Trail, Frankfort, IL 60423, on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 10am. Mass will be held at 11:00am. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Patricia’s name to the American Cancer society http://www.cancer.org/