Patricia M. (Pat) Amisson passed away in her home in Lakewood, NJ, surrounded by family, in the afternoon of June 17, 2018. She battled cancer with bravery and determination for eight years, and died peacefully at the age of 63.

Pat was born in Philadelphia, PA, and grew up in Brick and later Trenton, NJ. While raising four children and working full time, she earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from Monmouth and Fordham universities, respectively. She completed doctoral coursework at Columbia University, and held teaching positions at both Monmouth and Columbia universities. Her inquisitive and analytical mind, creativity, and intuition contributed to a long and fulfilling career in social work. Most recently, Pat worked as a psychological screener at Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, NJ. She was previously employed at The Center in Asbury Park, NJ.

Pat was happiest in the presence of her seven grandchildren, the lights of her life. She was often found with her head in a book, but was also known for her sense of mischief and love of fun. A notorious do-it-yourselfer, she was always tackling household projects. She loved a great bargain, and passed many happy hours at estate and yard sales. To her kids, she was the Boss (a.k.a. “Head of Household”) and the true heart of the family. Her guidance, friendship, and deep love were anchors.

Pat was predeceased by her parents, Rosemary A. and Michael F. Arace, Sr., and her sister, Marie Arace. She is survived by her partner of 28 years, Susan A. Zampa of Lakewood, NJ; her children, Marie Amisson, Elizabeth Amisson-Schall and her husband Jesse, Joseph Amisson and his wife April, and Catherine Scott and her husband Tyler; her grandchildren, Kaden, Joseph, Michael, Justin, Joan, Ella, and Milo; her brother, Michael F. Arace, Jr.; her niece and nephew, Michael and Alexandra Arace; her aunt, Betsy Allen; her cousins, Peter, Beth, and Amy Allen; and her former husband Joseph W. Amisson.

A memorial visitation will be held at O’Brien Funeral Home, located at 505 Burnt Tavern Road, Brick, NJ on Friday June 22 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm with eulogies being offered at 7:00 p.m.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made in Pat’s honor to CancerCare. https://community.cancercare.org/Tribute.

The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff affiliated with Monmouth Medical Center and the VNA of Central Jersey Home Care and Hospice for their dedicated and compassionate care throughout Pat’s illness.