Patricia C. Heaton

Patricia “Mrs. Pat” Heaton

Our beloved Mom and Grandma - Patricia Heaton, 86, of Summerfield, FL passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on August 11, 2026.

She was born December 14, 1939 in Fall River, MA to Alvin and Bertha Cunningham. In 1958, she eloped with the love of her life, Richard and they settled to start their family in Rhode Island. In 1969, they decided they’d had enough of the snow and moved to Florida. Though their destination was Orlando, they visited friends in Summerfield on the way and fell in love with the area and decided to stay and put down their roots.

Affectionately known as “Mrs. Pat”, she spent over 25 years as a Kindergarten Aide first at Belleview Elementary then Belleview Santos. It was a rare trip where she didn’t run into a student she’d taught or greeted as they got off the bus. She also loved crocheting. Many family and friends have received cherished baby blankets, lap blankets or Christmas stockings over the years.

Pat is survived by her children Barbara Heaton, Rick (Vicky) Heaton and Deb (Dave) Ware; 4 grandchildren: Amy (Matt), Dale (Candice), Courtney (Chris) and Bud; 7 great grandchildren: Taylor (Billy), Tyler (Alisha), Emma, Mia, Rylan, Eli & Annie and 4 great-great grandchildren: Joanna, Deacon, Dutton & June. She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Richard.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a memorial contribution be made to the Hospice of Marion County. A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date.