Patricia Anne (Sullivan) Tobin passed away peacefully in her home with her family by her side on Monday, May 25, 2026, after a long, courageous battle with multiple sclerosis. She was 84 years old, and will be remembered by her family and friends for her sweet nature, resiliency, and playful sense of humor.

Patricia, known affectionately as Patsy, grew up in Cambridge MA, with her beloved parents Patrick and Lillian (Nixon) Sullivan and two younger brothers, Richard and Paul. Patsy was a 1959 graduate of Cambridge High and Latin School, where she studied business and participated in the Future Nurses’ Club. She spent her childhood summers taking the ferry to Nantasket beach, going to the drive-in theater, and laughing with friends over milkshakes at the local ‘five and dime’ while Elvis played on the jukebox. She had fond memories of chauffeuring her mother and grandmother into Boston to go shopping (and of course out for lunch!), and the scenic drives her family would take through the countryside on Sundays after church. After graduation, she worked diligently as a legal secretary in the Cambridge court system where she supported lawyers in advocating for justice.

Patsy married her high school sweetheart and soulmate John J. Tobin on February 10, 1962, surrounded by loved ones and a fresh blanket of sparkling snow. After honeymooning in the White Mountains, they went on to share 53 incredible years together- building a life complete with two daughters, four grandchildren, and a lifetime of memories. Patsy is survived by her two daughters, Tracy A. Curran and her husband Joe and Karen A. White and her husband Steven, as well as her cherished grandchildren, Amanda & Michael Curran and Shane & Ryan White, all of Billerica.

Patsy was a proud Burlington resident of 60+ years who enjoyed chatting with neighbors about town happenings over a cup of coffee or tea. She regularly volunteered to count ballots and assist voters at local elections, as it gave her a chance to stay involved and see familiar faces. Patsy had many hobbies, including painting ceramics, shopping for bargains, appreciating the garden, and going out to eat. She loved dancing, playing card games, and listening to music, especially songs that reminded her of the ‘good old days’ when times were simpler. Alan Jackson, John Denver, and the Bee Gees were just a few of her favorite artists.

Patsy loved to plan vacations and traveled to Hawaii, the Dominican Republic, Saint Martin, and Florida, just to name a few. She enjoyed learning about different cultures, meeting new people, and looking “faboo” in a beautiful sundress while doing it. John and Patsy spent many weekends on Cape Cod, enjoying the company of four other couples who shared their love of fun and laughter. When their children were young, they bought land in South Berwick, Maine, where John built a small cottage for their family and friends to relax at. Up there, Patsy frequented auction houses, restaurants, beaches, and thrift stores. The Tobins made many memories in Wells and Ogunquit over the years, playing skee-ball at the arcade, looking for critters in the tide pools, and taking long beachside walks with their children and grandchildren. With a picnic lunch and some sunshine, anything was possible.

Patsy took tremendous pride in being a loyal wife, mother, nana, and friend. She was a great storyteller and an even better listener. She knew how to transform life’s mundane moments into glimmers of magic, and could always find the beauty in everyone and everything. Patsy had many cherished traditions, including making fudge and gingerbread houses at Christmas, and sometimes sneaking a little bite of dessert before dinner. She faced life’s challenges with incredible strength and dignity, and will forever be remembered for her bravery, perseverance, and kindness.

Per Patricia’s wishes, a private service will be held for her children and grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in her memory.

“We won’t be sad, we’ll be glad,

for all the life we’ve had,

and we’ll remember when.”

-Alan Jackson