Patricia Ann (Wassil) Forrest (1943-2017) passed away comfortably on Monday, August 7 in the company of her five children.

Patty is survived by her husband of 55 years, John Douglas Forrest, her sister Rita Arendash, her children Karl J. Forrest, Stacy M. Forrest, John D. Forrest, Jr., Renee A. Flanagan and Joseph G. Forrest, and her four grandchildren, Zoe Gould (19), Amanda Flanagan (18), Cole Forrest (15) and Hudson Forrest (9). Born to Joseph and Elizabeth, the daughter of a coal miner and fireman, she was raised in the small town of Footedale, PA until she moved to Cleveland, OH at the age of 18, where she was introduced to her husband by her brother Bob.

Nothing mattered to Patty more than family, and she raised her children with grace, compassion, strength, kindness and an unwaivering sense of humor. Devoted mother and wife, dear friend and animal lover, she gave her time to others unselfishly and was at her best when she had someone to take care of. Never judgmental, Patty carried an eternal optimism that lifted the spirits of everyone she knew. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know her. With a smiling heart and a joyous soul larger than life, she will probably find a way to whisper encouragement to her loved ones from time to time, when they really need it.

Graveside Funeral services will be held 2:00 PM Wednesday, August 9, 2017 at Greenlawn Memorial Park. Father Bob Kus will officiate.

In lieu of flowers memorials donations may be made to the Lower Cape Fear Hospice Foundation, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting "Share a Memory" above.

A service of Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Wilmington Chapel.