Patricia Katherine Fuller nee Leonard, affectionately known as Patti-K from Lewes, formerly of New Castle, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, May 21, at age 76. Patti was born in Wilmington on November 12, 1945, daughter of the late Thomas and Helen “Sully” Leonard both lifelong residents of New Castle.
Patti Graduated from William Penn High School in 1963 and worked for the Board of Water and Light. Patti married Warren “Butch” Fuller in 1964 and soon after had two children Keith and Kim. Patti and the family moved several times early in Warren’s career as an army pilot, though she eventually settled back in New Castle where her heart always remained. Patti worked for the department of Health and Human Services as a social worker for over 25 years. After retiring from the state, Patti moved to Bear and started a new career with Wilmington Trust in 2001, which she enjoyed immensely as she was able to utilize her charm and social skills and put people at ease and build trust. Patti climbed the ranks to become an officer of the bank in 2007 before retiring in 2008. Patti enjoyed three years of sunny, warm weather in Punta Gorda, Florida before moving back Delaware.
Patti, like her father, was an active member of the community and was a longtime member of the New Castle Lions Club, New Castle Rotary Club, served on the New Castle City Council, coached at New Castle Little League, and was active in both the William Penn Wrestling and Football Boosters.
Patti was a kind, compassionate and funny soul who loved to spend time with her family, and close friends (the girls – you know who you are) and spend hours reminiscing. She cherished and adored her granddaughter Mackenzie and relished the time they shared.
Anyone who met Patti became an instant and lifelong friend because of the love, warmth, kindness, and wisdom she illuminated. Loved by all, Patti will forever be remembered as a fun-loving, bright spirit who loved to laugh and embraced everyone and everything in her life.
Patti is survived by her son Keith Fuller; daughter Kim Feehery; granddaughter Mackenzie Feehery; Warren and Jane Fuller; Chris, Mary, James, and Hunter Hayes; Cousin Kathy Wirth nee Sullivan, and close friends Alexandra, Tony, and Mona Shalhoup.
In lieu of flowers, donation in Patti’s name may be made to the New Castle Lions Club, The Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute, the ASPCA or the American Diabetes Association.