Patricia Anne Rushford, age 84, affectionately known as Gram, Aunt Pat and Ma, was called back to the arms of our loving God on February 7, 2026, with loved ones by her side.

Born in Rome, New York on October 17, 1941, Pat was a tried and true “Roman” where she lived her life entirely. She was educated through the Oriskany School district where she won several athletic awards and graduated as Salutatorian of her high school class. She attended Alfred University. Her vocational career began right out of college when she worked for Carrier Corporation and then Griffiss AFB as a draftsperson, which was unusual and impressive for a woman at that time. She then worked at Branch Trucking, Transfiguration Church Rectory as an Office Manager, and Madison Plaza as a Property Manager. She often held multiple jobs which included moonlighting as a waitress at Liberty Lanes Restaurant. Pat was a devout Roman Catholic and her devotion for the Church and Blessed Mother never wavered.

On July 7, 1989, she married the love of her life, Fred Rushford. When she spoke of her beloved husband, she often said life began again when she met him and it was with him that she shared the best years of her life. In their 27 years of marriage, they traveled to nearly every state. Amongst their travels, Hollywood Beach, St. Augustine, and Puerto Rico were some of their favorite places. In her later years, Pat continued to enjoy traveling to Florida and lived as a snowbird. Pat enjoyed the sunshine and warm weather. She was also an avid crocheter for most of her life, and many people were fortunate enough to receive one of her beautiful blankets. However, her greatest joy whom she centered her existence on was her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Pat’s simplicity, spunk, strength and independence will be sorely missed. However, for those that were fortunate to know her, they will be able to keep the safety, refuge and light she provided in their hearts. In Pat’s final conscious moments, she insisted with humor that we enjoy our lives and make memories!

Pat is survived by her son Charles (Kelley) Kotary of Lee; grandchildren, Jennifer (Brian) Kotary, Erica (Andrew) Cousin, Kyle (Ashlee) Cousin, and Michael Weaver; great grandchildren Sawyer and Charlotte; nieces and nephews, Maria (Dale) Riley and Patricia (David) Parker all of Rome; great nieces and nephews; Katrina, Aaron, Hunter and Makaya; a sister-in-law Gail Rushford, a goddaughter Ami (Lee) Loomis, and her cat who was her loyal companion of 17 years and affectionately known as Kitty. She was predeceased by her husband Fred Rushford; daughter Mary E. Weaver; infant children Mary Catherine, David Matthew and Michael John; parents, Karl Schultz and Yvonne (DeMarse); sister and closest friend, Sally Paris; a grandson, Karl Cousin; and brother-in-law, Anthony Paris.

The family wishes to thank those who provided care in the end years of her life, especially the Rome Hospital Staff for their service and grace in her final days. 

Services will be held at Barry Funeral Home, 807 West Chestnut Street, Rome, NY (315) 337-0055, on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Calling hours are from 3 to 5 PM, with a service immediately following. In celebration of Patricia's soul joining the Lord to await the resurrection, we ask that friends and relatives DO NOT WEAR THE COLOR BLACK to her services. Thank you. 

For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN   38105. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. 

Pat's final wishes have been entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, Nick Iselo, Marty Ciaccia and Kevin Barry, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.barryfuneralhome.com.