Dr. Ann R. Patton

Dr. Ann R. Patton, 85, of Palm Beach County, Florida, formerly of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025, surrounded by family.

Born in Wilmington, Ann was the youngest child of Pasquale and Anna Remedio. A lifelong educator, she earned her B.A. and M.Ed. from the University of Delaware and a Ph.D. in Education from Nova Southeastern University. Her career began as a second-grade teacher and advanced to Principal roles at various New Castle County schools. She later served as Supervisor of Human Resources for the Red Clay School District and retired as Principal of Richey Elementary. After retiring, Ann continued her passion for education as an adjunct professor at Wilmington University, teaching graduate-level courses in the Master of Education program.

Ann married Wilmington Police Lt. Terence J. Patton, Sr. in 1963, beginning a loving partnership that lasted nearly four decades until Terry’s passing in 2022, just short of their 60th anniversary. In 2005, Ann and Terry moved to Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, where they enjoyed golfing, cruising, and frequent trips to the Florida Keys.

Ann is survived by her children, The Honorable Terence J. Patton, Jr. (former spouse Monica Patton) of Spotsylvania, Virginia and Barbara Patton Phipps (husband Donald Phipps) of Lake Worth, Florida; grandchildren Caroline Grace, Charlotte Anne, and Emily Ann; and brother Daniel Remedio. She was predeceased by her brothers Joseph W. Remedio, Sr., and Pasquale C. Remedio, Jr.

Dr. Patton will be remembered for her unwavering commitment to education, her leadership, and her deep love for family. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched—both in the classroom and beyond.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, Dec. 20th at 10:30 am at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 9th and Dupont Streets, Wilmington. Where family and friends are invited to a visitation starting at 9:30 am, interment will follow Mass in Cathedral Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, donations to Delaware Association of Police, 2201 Lancaster Ave., Wilmington, DE 19805.

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