Kelley Ann (Lenkner) Patterson

Kelley Ann Lenkner Patterson, age 47, of Stratford and formerly of Milford, beloved wife of Michael William Patterson for 21 years, died suddenly on Sunday, February 7, 2021.  Kelley was born in Pittsburgh, PA on May 15, 1973 to John and Cynthia Lenkner of SC. 

Kelley loved teaching, family, Krafting, sewing, the performing arts, animals, music, books, and her friends. She was always concerned about others, and making them feel comfortable. She was a mentor and advisor and everywhere she went people always loved her. Kelley's laugh will be heard forever.

Kelley's Overture began in Pittsburgh, PA with a large extended family and was involved in music and theatre from a young age. She attended Woodland Hills High School and the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown before starting her career in theatre. Kelley's theatre career began in high school and extended well into her life. Act I of Kelley's professional life was spent in various positions in several organizatons including; Sante Fe Opera, Maine State Music Theatre, Walnut Street Theatre, Long Wharf Theatre where she completed her theatre journey as Master Electrician.

Kelley's Intermezzo was bookended by both of her daughters’ births. During that time, she held several positions in various theatre related companies, nannied, and worked at a pre-school. Once she understood the rewards of teaching she made the courageous leap into Act II; her career in education. With 2 small children at home, and still working, she graduated from SCSU with a Masters in Education. From there she had a diverse career which spanned 3 different school districts, 7 grade levels from K-6, and over a dozen schools. She adored her work, her collegues, and especially her students.

She has always been involved in groups and organizations; which include: Key Club, Marching Band, Musicals, JFK PTO, Invention Convention, Nature's Classroom, Archery Taxi, Dance Mom for Project Dance Center (and others), Book Club, and many others.

The true loves of Kelley's life were her family. She adored her husband Michael, and cherished her girls above all else. She was devoted to every aspect of their lives, and proud of all of their accomplishments.

Survivors include her cherished daughters: Kayleigh Marie Patterson and Julianna Todd Patterson, both of Stratford, sister, Michelle Albrecht and her husband Jay of Piedmont, SC and their children Cali and Zach and many dear friends.

Due to the current pandemic, a Celebration of Kelley’s life will be held in the future.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Kelley to Broadway Cares- COVID-19 Emergency Assistance (https://bit.ly/2OqleKq) or to a STEM education project in your local area through Donors Choose (https://bit.ly/2Z6cdZ2). 

TO ATTEND THE FUNERAL SERVICE AT 1:00 PM ON FRIDAY FEBRUARY 12TH, PLEASE USE THE FOLLOWING ZOOM LINK:  https://us04web.zoom.us/j/8039050906?pwd=cU5aMUJlaWpzRHk0ckhUbDlRQUhFZz09

The family encourages friends to share a story, photograph or memory of Kelley on the funeral home’s website at www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.

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