Patricia A. McIlvain

March 17, 1932 - March 24, 2021

Patricia A. McIlvain, age 89 of Rehoboth Beach, DE, passed away on Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at her home surrounded by her four loving children. She was born on March 17, 1932 in York, PA, daughter of the late William A. and Anna Crone. Mrs. McIlvain grew up in York and attended York Hospital Nursing School, from which she graduated in 1953. She built a lifelong career as a nurse at York Hospital and Milford Memorial Hospital, culminating in more than 42 years of dedicated care. Even following retirement, Mrs. McIlvain continued her care of others by working for Coram Home Healthcare. Mrs. McIlvain loved playing the slots and patronized local casinos whenever she could. She enjoyed the Game Show Network and had it playing continually throughout her days. Mrs. McIlvain was an avid traveler, and along with her husband, spent many memorable vacations visiting various regions in their RV. A favorite destination was Orioles’ training camp in Clearwater, Florida. As the matriarch of her close-knit family, she hosted innumerable outings and events, valuing time spent with them above all else. Mrs. McIlvain was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She was loved by many and will be deeply missed by all who knew her. In addition to her parents, Mrs. McIlvain was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 47 years, Robert A. McIlvain in 2001; and her brother, Gene Crone. She is survived by her children: Karen Messick of Lewes, DE, Robert A. McIlvain Jr. (Janine) of Lewes, DE, Kim Heishman (Eric) of Milford, DE, and Kathy Galbreath (Bill) of Rehoboth Beach, DE; her grandchildren: Patti Connie (Chris), Barbara Broughton, Laura McIlvain, Leigh McIlvain-Copp (Justin), Heather Burke (Chris), Hannah Heishman, Seth Heishman, and Courtney Macchione (Danny); and her great-grandchildren: Zachary, Mack, Taylor, Mya, Joseph, Lucas, and Toby. A funeral service will be held on Monday, March 29, 2021 at 11:00 AM, at Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes, DE, where friends may call beginning at 10:00 AM. Entombment will follow the services at Henlopen Memorial Park, 28787 Lockerman Road, Milton, DE. Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, masks and social distancing are required by all participating in or attending the services. All who cannot attend in person are invited to join the services via live streaming by visiting the following link: http://www.parsellfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/permalink/9899646/LTWebcast In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions in Mrs. McIlvain’s memory to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963. Please sign the virtual guestbook located on the tribute page.