Patricia Sylvester, of Niantic, passed away on April 20, 2026, at the age of 77. Born in Norwich, Connecticut, on March 23, 1949, Patricia was the beloved daughter of the late Michael and Doris Swider.

She carried with her throughout her life a deep pride in her roots, especially her fond memories of growing up on Mill Lane and spending time at Lake Hayward. As a child, Patricia was known for her strong work ethic and simple joysspending time working alongside her father mowing lawns in the Colchester area and afterward getting treated to a well-earned root beer float at Harry's; this is where she formed many values that shaped who she became. Those early experiences reflected both her sense of responsibility and her appreciation for lifes small pleasures. Patricias warmth, kindness and her beautiful blue eyes left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. She had a deep appreciation for beauty and creativity, enjoying collecting pottery, artwork and making binders with clipped magazine articles and pictures of home design ideas. She also cherished her trips to Maryland, which brought her happiness and lasting memories. Patricia will be remembered as a storyteller. She had a unique gift for drawing people in, making every story come alive.

Patricia will be sadly missed but always remembered with love by her children and their spouses Jeremy Sylvester and his wife, Roxanna and Jonathyn Sylvester and his wife Nancy; her brother, Peter Swider and his wife Sandra her sister, Katherine VanFossen and her husband Gerald and her grandchildren, Sarah and Jillian; and numerous extended family members and friends. She was predeceased by a sister, Linda George.

A graveside service will be held at St. Josephs Cemetery in Colchester on Friday, May 8th at 10AM. For online condolences, or to share a story of Patricia, please visit www.auroramccarthyfuneralhome.com