Patricia Marie Moynahan

Biddeford, ME - After a short battle with cancer, Patricia “Pat” Marie Moynahan died on December 15, 2021. Both in how she lived her life and in the manner she faced her death, Pat possessed a fearless clarity about what she wanted, what needed to be done, and the daring it would take to achieve her goals.

Bright, focused, and with a fortitude that was rarely matched, Pat was a capable presence in any situation. She was a rare combination of competence and accomplishment as well as being imbued with passion, curiosity and deep listening.

Pat was born in Chicopee Falls, Massachusetts in 1939. She grew up with her five siblings In Williamsburg, MA. Patricia graduated from Williamsburg High School, Williamsburg, MA. She then received her nursing, RN degree from Mercy Hospital in Springfield, MA. She also obtained a Bachelor of Science from California State University, Chico, CA and Master of Science from Boston University. Pat joined the Air Force in 1961. Pat was a flight nurse in the Vietnam War coordinating the care for wounded veterans as they were transported from Vietnam to the states. She was also a clinical nursing education coordinator.

Pat then worked in the Chief Epidemiologic Investigative Section of the Disease Surveillance Branch at the United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine at Brooks AFB in Texas. Among her duties she was part of a team that studied the effects of Agent Orange. Their findings were presented to Congress. Pat retired as a decorated Colonel (a “full bird”) in the United States Air Force in 1984 having received both the National Defense Service Medal and the Legion of Merit.

Upon retirement from the Air Force, Pat moved to Maine. Pat volunteered for over twenty years in the Alternatives to Violence Project, a volunteer-run conflict transformation program, in the Maine Prison system. She conducted experiential workshops to develop participants' abilities to resolve conflicts without resorting to manipulation, coercion, or violence.

Whether it was hiking the peaks over 4000 feet in Maine, descending to the bottom of the Grand Canyon in 120 degree heat or quietly contemplating life’s mysteries on the back porch, Pat pursued these activities with an unquenchable enthusiasm and zeal. To Pat, each endeavor, big or small, deserved her full attention. She volunteered for several naturalist studies at major universities. Work that led her to follow lemurs through the trees of Madagascar and lions through the jungles of China. Each and every trip became a part of who Pat was.

As many know, birding was Pat’s passion. The birding world has lost a true steward. Pat was a steady presence in the Maine Birding Community leading several programs for the York Audubon Society and participating in the Annual Christmas Count. Pat traveled worldwide to find and observe the birds she loved.

Although this vibrant force is no longer strolling along the sands of Hills Beach caring for the piping plovers, we know she is walking alongside us continuing to inspire. Luckily, all we have to do is look out our windows to be reminded of Pat.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents Patrick & Helen Moynahan, brothers Joseph, Timo and John.

Pat was an anchor for many and will be missed. She loved her family and leaves her sisters Kathy Luce (Russ), Maureen (Ted) McWilliams; nephews Shaun (Tung) Moynahan, Dan (Anna) Moynahan, Jim (Kim) Moynahan and nieces Laura O’Donnel and Meghan McWilliams. She also leaves great-nieces and nephews: Emily O’Donnell, Kaley O’Donnell, Keagan Moynahan, Kolby Moynahan, Aidan Moynahan, Shayne Moynahan and Eva, Bella & Roman Holmes.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a graveside service on Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at 11:00 am at St.Mary of the Assumption Cemetery, 486 Haydenville Rd, Leeds, MA.

Pat would be delighted to have you consider a donation to:

York County Audubon Society

PO Box 201

Kennebunkport, ME 04046.