Patricia Jean Marlowe

With loving family, close friends, and a wonderful caregiver nearby, Patricia Jean (Dillon) Marlowe passed from this life at her home in Gilroy after a three-year wrestle with cancer. She met this challenge with dignity, pragmatism and concern for those around her that also characterized her life’s journey. Patricia was born on her father’s ranch in Aromas. She grew up pitting apricots, tending livestock, working hard alongside her parents, three brothers and a sister. She graduated Watsonville High School in 1942. On May 1, 1943, Patricia married high school sweetheart, James W. Marlowe in Yuma, AZ while he was on leave from the Navy during WWII. The first of three sons, James D. was born while husband Jim was in the South Pacific. After discharge, Patricia and Jim made a home in King City when he returned to his job with Southern Pacific Railroad and another son, Jack, was born. They moved to Gilroy in 1948 where a third boy, Jay, arrived. Devoting herself to family life was Pat’s highest calling. She also enjoyed working as a school secretary for 20 years at Elliot and Rucker Elementary schools. She told great stories about kids as they passed through her office over the years. Always an advocate for learning, she was a past PTA President, and in the 1970s, attended Gavilan College to obtain her AA degree. When she lost son Jack to the Vietnam War, she joined the National Organization of Gold Star Mothers, working on projects benefiting veterans, and serving as President of the San Jose Chapter for 12 years. In retirement, Pat and Jim spent 17 years enjoying grandchildren and friends, traveling the U.S. to visit relatives, taking trips to Brazil, Tahiti, Australia, British Isles, and Norway. They were known for backyard BBQs with sizzling steaks, Pat’s macaroni salad, and unparalleled chili beans. After Jim passed in 1996, Patricia kept busy with gardening, managing properties, spending time with family and doting on grandkids. In later years, she joined Women in Touch, going on excursions with members and serving as “sunshine” secretary. She attended South Valley Community Church, appreciating the fellowship. Recently, Patricia received an award from the Exchange Club of Gilroy for “Outstanding Service and Contributions” to youth, Americanism, and community – a recognition that brought her joy, pride and a sense of accomplishment. Patricia was preceded in death by parents, Harry & Evelyn Dillon; husband Jim; brothers Dale, Lyle, and John Dillon, sister Dolores Jones; son Jack, and granddaughter Amy. She is survived by son James D. Marlowe and wife, Sandra, of Gilroy; grandson Jon Marlowe, wife Nina, and great-grandson, Lucas, of San Ramon; granddaughter Megan Marlowe of Spring, TX; son Jay P. Marlowe of Lompoc, wife Marcia, granddaughter Marielle, grandson Jay, Jr., of Mexicali, Mexico; granddaughter Jennifer Marlowe of Somerton, AZ along with cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Private interment will be at Pajaro Valley Memorial Park in Watsonville. A celebration of her life will be held at South Valley Community Church in Gilroy on Saturday, January 26, 2008 at 11:00 AM, with reception following.