Patricia Marie (Power) Markley, age 77, died peacefully on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at UMASS Memorial Medical Center – University Campus, surrounded by the loving presence of her family.

Born in Worcester, she was the daughter of Thomas Frances and Mary Elizabeth (Foudy) Power, and was a lifelong resident of Worcester and Holden, MA.

Patricia was a graduate of St. Peter’s High School in Worcester. She earned her bachelor’s degree in English from Our Lady of The Elms College in Chicopee, MA. She later earned a Master’s degree in English from Worcester State College while teaching high school English, Social Studies, and Yearbook in the Worcester Public Schools.

Patricia, or “Mrs. Markley” as she was known to her students, dedicated her entire professional career to education. She began her career in Hillsdale, NY but then returned to Worcester, teaching for many years at both South and Burncoat High Schools. After her retirement in 2007, Patricia returned to the classroom to teach at Quinsigamond Community College and Anna Maria College. With a firm but fair demeanor she required respect but gave it in return to all students without prejudice. Through this approach, patience, and dedication, she was able to have a lasting and positive impact on many impressionable young lives throughout her tenure.

Patricia loved to read and was a member of several book clubs. She was always open to a good book recommendation or happy to make one of her own. She had several life-long friends, and many close friends who treasured her sharp wit, loyalty, generosity and kindness. Yet there was nothing “Nana” loved more than being with her grandsons. She often said, she would walk to them if she had to (whether it was New Hampshire or California).

Patricia will be lovingly missed and remembered by her beloved husband of 51 years, Thomas J. Markley Jr. of Holden; her sons, Thomas J. Markley III and his wife Angela of Nashua, NH, and Sean P. Markley and his wife Julie of Pleasanton, CA; her cherished grandsons, Jack, James, Spenser, Christopher and Thomas; her brothers Robert Power of Paxton, MA and Kevin Power (Ellen) of Worcester, MA; along with numerous beloved cousins, nieces and nephews, and close friends. She is pre-deceased by her sister Margaret McClure, formerly of Worcester, MA.

Family and friends will gather for Calling Hours from 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM on Saturday, October 19th at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. A Memorial Service will follow at 11:30 AM at the funeral home, with interment following at Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Avenue, Paxton.

Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org).