"Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing. And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to climb. And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance."

It is with great sadness that the family of Patricia Ann Lyon announces that she has lost her valiant battle with cancer and passed away at home on November 27th. Known to all that loved her as Patann, she was born on July 23rd, 1961, grew up in Rumson New Jersey, and attended and graduated from Rumson Fair Haven High School class of '79.

Patann graduated from New England College where she was captain of the equestrian team and earned a B.A, in Psychology and Sociology. She also attended the New School for Social Research in NYC. Her career has been dedicated to the service, care, and management of persons with developmental disabilities. She was the Childcare Counselor for the Marian House in Belmar NJ and the New Horizons Resident Coordinator. She also served as Assistant Director of Residential Services and Director of Adult Services for Arc/Morris in NJ. Relocating after marriage, she became Director of Quality Assurance for Camary Statewide Services in Albany NY, and then Director of Residential Services for Litchfield Arc in CT. The last 14 years she has worked in Pre-K Special Education as a paraprofessional at the Quaker Farms School in Oxford CT, where she touched many young minds.

Patann was an equestrian, an avid runner, and happiest at the beach, in her vegetable garden, or with her family. Patann was unconditionally kind and selflessly devoted to her family, and we will forever cherish the many happy years we shared together. Patann was a rarity in this world, a true ray of light with a glowing soul, and our lives will be forever dimmer without her.

She is predeceased by her parents, Kathleen Margarella Campi and Victor J. Campi. Patann leaves behind her husband of 27 years, Jim, son Thomas, daughter Sarah, grandson Victor Jay, her sisters Kasey Ordway Raines, Diane Campi Brunner, Marian Campi Conde, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

The family invites CT friends to join us for a memorial service at The United Church of Christ 283 Main Street North Southbury on Saturday, December 17 at 1pm. A reception will follow at the church.

For friends and family in NJ, we will be planning a memorial service for the spring. Details to follow.