Patricia Ann (Smith) Ward, 84, of Kittery Point, Maine, passed away on Wednesday, October 14, 2026. She was predeceased by her husband, Peter; her three sons, Scott Byron, Sean Patrick, and Timothy James; and her sister, Joanne Herbert. She is survived by her loving daughter, Shannon Bernadette, and her husband, Terrence C. Swiger Jr., of Kittery Point, Maine; her four beloved grandchildren, Terrence and Aidan Swiger, and Maggie and Brady Ward; her sisters, Diane Field (husband George), Linda Stansfield, and Janet Hobbs; and her brother, William Smith.

Patricia grew up in Springvale, Maine, graduated from Sanford High School, and continued her education at Gorham State Teachers College. She later earned her master’s degree from Fairfield University. Her first teaching job brought her to Connecticut, where she met Peter Joseph, the love of her life. They married and built a life together in Fairfield, raising four children: Scott, Timmy, Shannon, and Sean.

Patricia was a dedicated teacher at Our Lady of the Assumption School, where she taught social studies and literature. As a teacher, she was beloved for her sense of humor and the special nicknames she had for her students. Her classroom was filled with warmth, laughter, and encouragement, along with her famous treasure chest of candy and the daily quotes she faithfully wrote on the chalkboard, little traditions her students would never forget. In her final year at Assumption, she served as assistant principal, continuing to give so much to a school that meant so much to her.

As a mother, Patricia made even the simplest things feel special and filled her children’s lives with love. Whether it was making her famous signs to cheer on her children (and their friends) at sporting events or writing notes on their lunch napkins each school day, those thoughtful gestures meant so much. She brought laughter into their home with her quick wit and sense of humor. Her children's friends adored her just as much as her own children did. She had a way of making everyone feel welcome and comfortable. She wasn't just a friend's mom; she was someone they loved, too.

Patricia loved hosting family and friends, whether it was for a day by the pool, a dinner party, WABIT, or a holiday celebration. She loved when her home was filled with laughter, good conversation, and the company of those she loved. Christmas was especially dear to her, and her famous Christmas champagne toast was something everyone looked forward to each year.

Patricia was proud of her Irish heritage and enjoyed collecting Irish treasures and spending nights at the Gaelic American Club. In later years, she enjoyed spending time at the Elks Club with her friends. She was a devoted fan of Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, had a sweet tooth, and her grandchildren nicknamed her “The Treatster” for always having treats on hand. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family.

One thing that defined Patricia was her incredible strength. Life brought her more heartbreak, loss, and worry than any mother should ever have to endure, yet through it all, she remained remarkably strong and resilient. She found her way through the hardest times while holding on to her kindness, her unmistakable sense of humor, and most importantly, her love for others. She kept showing up for the people she loved, even when her own life was difficult. Patricia possessed a strength that few could fully understand, but everyone who knew her could see.

Patricia leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. Students will remember her as their favorite teacher, friends who shared years of laughter and wonderful memories, and family who felt the depth of her love every day.

May the angels guide you home, may the Irish hills sing you to rest, and may those you love be waiting to welcome you.