Patricia J. Lapham
It is with deep sorrow and loving remembrance that we announce the passing of Patricia Josephine Lapham (nee White) who left us peacefully on January 11, 2025 at the age of 87. Born on May 5, 1937, she was the beloved wife of Ronald Wayne Lapham for 62 beautiful years (1957-2019) and a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Her life was one of grace, love, and joy, marked by her boundless devotion to her family and her deep and enduring love for her husband.
Pat and Ron shared a love story that seemed straight out of a fairy tale. Their marriage was a true partnership, filled with unwavering support, laughter, and a bond that only deepened with time. Together, they built a life founded on mutual respect and shared dreams, creating a family that will carry their legacy forward. Their love was a beacon for all who knew them, and even after Ron’s passing in 2019, Pat’s devotion to him never wavered. In the quiet moments, she would often speak of him with a tenderness that reflected the depth of their connection. Now, as we say goodbye to her, we find comfort in knowing she has been reunited with him in heaven, where their love story continues.
A former nurse, Pat dedicated her life to caring for others, always putting the needs of others before her own. She was a talented chef, avid gardener, and an entertainer at heart, with a knack for making everything around her beautiful. Whether it was preparing a meal, tending to her garden, or hosting family gatherings, she put her heart and soul into everything she did. A past small business owner and an expert homemaker, she embodied grace, warmth, and creativity in all things.
Above all, Pat was a woman whose greatest joy came from her family. She was devoted and is survived by her daughters, Amy (James) Dugan, Katherine Carmigiano and Jennifer Caples; doting grandmother to Rachel (Marc) Frenger, Madeline (Christopher) Dugan-King, Caroline (Adam) Crow, Abigail and Margaret Carmigiano, John Ridgely and Samantha White Caples; great-grandmother to Nolan Dugan-King, Willow Crow and Arthur Frenger; and loving aunt and great aunt to many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother, William E. White (1930-2016) and parents Roland Wallace White, (1910-1984) and Alice Elzine Boyce (White), (1910-2003).
Her love, wisdom, and presence were a constant source of comfort and strength, and she leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and uplift all who were fortunate enough to know her. Rest in peace, dear Mom. You were the heart of our family, and your love for Dad will forever be a cherished part of our story. Until we are reunited, you will live on in our hearts.
A Memorial service will be held at 11:00 am. on Saturday February 8th, 2025 at St. James Episcopal Church, 131 N State St., Painesville, followed by interment in the St. James Columbarium. Prior to the Memorial service family will receive friends from 10:30 am.-11:00 am. A private celebration of Pat's life is planned with her family.
Donations in honor of Pat can be made to St. James Episcopal Church Foundation, www.stjamesoh.org.