Patricia Pantera Di Sessa

Patricia Pantera Di Sessa, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and educator, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2026, at her home in Lexington, Kentucky, at the age of 80. Patricia was born on August 30, 1945, in Galesburg, Illinois, to Richard Pantera and Geraldine Wrest, who cherished her as their daughter and raised her in Orchard Park, New York.

Patricia’s path of kindness and generosity touched the lives of many. She was married for 54 wonderful years to her beloved husband, Dr. Thomas Di Sessa. Together, they raised three sons who carry forward her legacy of compassion — Tom (Jen) Di Sessa of LaGrange Park, Illinois, John (Melynda) Di Sessa of Reading, Pennsylvania, and Peter (Jennifer) Di Sessa of Nashville, Tennessee. Patricia took great joy in her role as a grandmother to her five cherished grandchildren: T.J., Will, Meredith, Connor, and Ashlyn, and three stepgrandchildren: Michael, Jazmyne, and Austin, and 2 step great-grandchildren.

An educator at heart, Patricia dedicated over 20 years of her life to teaching French, fostering a love for language and culture in her students. She received her undergraduate degree from D’Youville College in Buffalo, New York, followed by a master's degree from SUNY Buffalo. She was deeply involved in her community and was a proud member of Pax Christi Catholic Church in Lexington, Kentucky. Outside of her professional life, Patricia found joy in knitting and crocheting, creating beautiful pieces that carried her warmth and affection. Her spirit was enriched by her family and friendships, and she will be remembered for her unwavering kindness and generosity.

Patricia is also survived by her brother, Dr. Richard (Jan) Pantera of Visalia, California, who mourns her passing alongside countless friends and loved ones whose lives she impacted profoundly.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 7th, 2026, from 5 PM to 7 PM at Clark Legacy Center - Brannon Crossing. A Funeral Mass will take place at 10 AM on Wednesday, April 8th, at Pax Christi Catholic Church in Lexington, Kentucky. In celebrating the life of Patricia Di Sessa, we honor her legacy of love, education, and community, which will continue to inspire those who knew her. She will be dearly missed yet forever remembered in the hearts of her family and friends.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association or the ASPCA.

Flowers can be sent to Clark Legacy Center, 601 E Brannon Rd, Nicholasville, KY 40356.