Patricia Reilly Giff, 86, Of Fairfield

From Shaughnessey-Banks Funeral Home:

Patricia Reilly Giff, loving wife of the late James A. Giff, passed away at home on Tuesday, June 22, 2021, with her family at her side. A native New Yorker, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Marymount Manhattan College, her master’s from St. John’s University, a professional diploma in reading and a doctorate in humane letters from Hofstra University, as well as an honorary doctorate from Sacred Heart University.

Pat was a reading teacher for over 20 years when she decided, “It’s my turn to write for children.” She has written over 100 books, including two Newbery Honor-winning titles, inspiring children with hope and the message that we are all special.

Pat is survived by her two children, William Giff and his wife, Catherine, and Alice O’Meara and her husband, James; her daughter-in-law, Laura Giff; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her son, James.

She was loved by her family and friends and was a mentor to many aspiring authors.

Friends are invited to greet her family from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 27, 2021, at Shaughnessey-Banks Funeral Home in Fairfield. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10 a.m. Monday, June 28, 2021, meeting directly at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Fairfield. Interment will be private.