Patricia Flannery Slisz

Patricia Flannery Slisz, a beloved and devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and tireless advocate for the Deaf community, passed away peacefully at the age of 82 on May 24, 2025. Born on August 31, 1942, in Davenport, Iowa, Patricia was the cherished daughter of the late Catherine and James Flannery. She was preceded in death by her sister Beverly Sommer and her devoted husband, Ronald J. Slisz. She is survived by her loving sister, Sandra Hermiston. Patricia’s greatest joy was her family. She was a loving and dedicated mother to Darrell Gay and Marlene Fryer (Gay), and a proud grandmother to Alexandria, Andrew, and Anthony Gay, as well as Ariana, Connell, Rowan, Nevan, Milo, and Katharina Fryer. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Kamdyn Hawkes, Essek Gay, Silas Decker, and Zelie Polzer. For more than 50 years, Patricia was a deeply committed and active member of St. Francis Borgia Deaf Center in the Archdiocese of Chicago, where she served as Head Liturgist, Director of the RCIDA program, a Field Advocate for the Archdiocese, and was one of the first graduates of the Ministry Formation Program for the Deaf. Her Catholic faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she gave of herself fully in service to others. As an active member of the Deaf community, she was involved in numerous organizations, including the National Catholic Office for the Deaf (NCOD), as well as ICDA and CCE, where she held leadership roles. Patricia's passion for advocacy and inclusion extended far beyond the church; her professional life was just as impactful. Patricia worked as a job coach for Goodwill Industries, where her dedication and mentorship earned her the prestigious Mercedes Benz Mentor Award. She taught American Sign Language to countless individuals, always seeking to bridge gaps and build understanding between the hearing and Deaf communities. Patricia was also a talented and creative artist. Her work spanned sewing, painting, mosaic tiling, and beyond. She served as a judge for several art competitions, generously shared her love of the arts with her grandchildren, and incorporated her talents into all her church and community roles. Her creativity brought beauty and inspiration to everything she touched. Patricia was a woman of unwavering faith, unshakable love, and boundless energy. Her life was a testament to service, compassion, and strength. She gave her heart fully to her family and to the causes she held dear, always making a difference. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. A funeral Mass celebrating Patricia’s life will be held at St. Francis Borgia Deaf Center, 8021 W. Addison Street, Chicago, IL on Wednesday, May 28, with viewing from 9 to 11a.m. followed by funeral Mass at 11am. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to the Chicago Catholic Office of the Deaf. May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may her legacy live on in all those she so lovingly touched.

Tributes

Patricia Flannery Slisz

August 31, 1942 - May 24, 2025