Lillian Violet Patterson, at 92

Lillian Violet Patterson, 92, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., on May 18, 1933, Mrs. Patterson lived a life rooted in love, strength, and quiet dignity.

She was the devoted wife of the late William Patterson and the beloved mother of the late James O’Toole. Her enduring bond with daughter-in-law Gloria O’Toole of Lake Mary, Florida, was a testament to the love that transcends loss.

Mrs. Patterson is survived by her daughters, Colleen (Michael) Ciaccio of New Jersey and Cynthia O’Toole of Hull. Cynthia, her daily companion and closest confidante, shared a deeply meaningful connection with her mother, caring for her with unwavering love and grace.

Mrs. Patterson was the proud grandmother of Shaun O’Toole, Michael (Emily) Ciaccio, Joseph Ciaccio, and Megan Ciaccio, and lovingly embraced her step-granddaughters, Denise and Erika Torres. Her legacy continues through her great-granddaughters, Mila and Emma Ciaccio, and step-great-granddaughter Jordan Brown.

She spent much of her career with AT&T in New York before moving to Massachusetts, where she worked as a legal secretary at Ropes & Gray. Known for her intellect and professionalism, Mrs. Patterson approached her work – and life – with quiet strength and care.

A lover of books, old movies, mahjong, and travel, Mrs. Patterson found joy in life’s simple pleasures. Her gentle spirit extended to animals, especially her beloved cat, Sophie.

Though her services were private, Mrs. Patterson’s memory lives on in every act of kindness, every shared story, and every quiet moment of love. She taught us that life doesn’t need to be loud to be powerful – and that love, once given, never fades.

May she rest peacefully, reunited with those she loved, and forever remembered by those she touched.

A Celebration of Life service was held on Tuesday, July 8 in the Pyne Keohane Funeral Home, Hingham. Burial was in Hull Village Cemetery.