Patricia Ann Brady Cavalier was born on April 24, 1935, in Michigan City and passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 23, 2026, at 11:47 p.m. in Sarasota.
Pat was the beloved daughter of Harold and Eunice Brady and the middle of three daughters. She graduated from Holy Cross Central School of Nursing in 1954. She later retired from the Sarasota Welfare Center, now known as Pines of Sarasota, in 1987 after many years of dedicated service.
Pat raised her six beloved daughters with her first husband, Jim Gotch. Theatre became a central part of family life, and they were involved in productions with the Manatee Players and The Island Players, as well as community theatre groups in Tennessee.
She loved Jesus and volunteered at Sacred Heart Catholic Church during the 1970s and was an active member of the Jaycettes. She worked tirelessly and co-founded the Dawn of Hope Center in Johnson City in the late 1960s. Family members find peace knowing she is now resting in the loving arms of Jesus.
Pat later shared many adventures with her husband, Michael, traveling throughout the United States by RV and enjoying time on the water sailing together.
In her later years, Pat cherished time spent with her ever-growing family and loved keeping up with family news and happenings on Facebook. She also enjoyed watching the activity along the Gulf from her high-rise view in Venice, which brought her great entertainment, happiness, and peace.
Known affectionately as “Red-Haired Nana,” Pat was deeply proud of her Irish heritage and fiery red hair.
Among the family’s most treasured memories are the joyful Christmas gatherings that brought everyone together for many years. One especially beloved tradition was Pat’s famous gumdrop tree, from which her grandchildren eagerly picked candy treats each holiday season.
Pat is survived by her six spirited daughters: Kathy, Rhyse, Marianne, Virginia, Patty Jo, and Betsy; 19 grandchildren; and 43 great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry forward her love, strength, humor, and resilience.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Dawn of Hope Center, 500 East Oakland Avenue, Johnson City, Tennessee 37601.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 26th Street Chapel, 5624 26th Street West, Bradenton, Florida, is in charge of arrangements.
