Patricia "Pat" Cara Braithwaite

Patricia Braithwaite passed away quietly on Saturday, July 24, 2021, at her home in Pflugerville, Texas. Patricia, known as Pat by everyone, was born on May 4, 1949, at Queens General Hospital in Queens, New York. Pat grew up in both Manhattan and Queens, New York, and was the second child of Katherine Johnson Giles and David Giles.

Pat met her husband Keith in 1969. On June 12, 1971, they were married at Grace Episcopal Church in Jamaica, New York. In their 50 years of marriage, they raised three children – Elena, Lisa, and Keith David. She was also a mother to Kim, whom she met later in life.

Pat attended college at New York University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Rehabilitation and Social Services. Pat earned a second degree in Nursing, which was her first love. As a Registered Nurse, Pat worked in several disciplines, such as Respiratory Care, Medical-Surgical Care, and Intensive Care. After arriving in Texas, she worked as a school nurse in the Pflugerville School System until retirement. Pat accomplished all these achievements while also being a supportive wife and the best mother to her children.

Pat was very devoted to her family and friends and always showed immense pride in their achievements. She loved spending time with her husband, Keith, her children, and her grandchildren, who always put a smile on her face. Pat loved to sew, cook, and host family and friends during the holidays. She was also a fantastic photographer; whose images documented the lives of others.

Pat was active in her community. She was Vice President of the Austin Chapter of The National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) and a scheduler for Drive A Senior. In addition, Pat had a passion for fighting cancer after losing her mother at a young age to breast cancer. She was a Board Member for the Austin Cancer Society, a top fundraiser for Relay for Life, and participated in various breast cancer walks to raise awareness and donations.

Moving so often forced the family to meet friends whose relationships continue. However, Austin was where the Braithwaite family found a home at St. James' Episcopal Church. With roughly 20 different roles that Pat assumed, it is hard to list them all. However, Pat was an active member of the Hospitality Ministry, The Chair of the Lenten Tea Committee, the Vestry, the Neighbor-2-Neighbor Program, Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper Chair, and long-time Usher. Additionally, she played an integral role in enhancing the photography and hospitality of the Jazz at St. James' Program. Pat also used her love of cooking for raising money by winning cooking contests in the Church with her fabulous chili and pies.

Pat was loved by so many, was a selfless person, and gave without reservation. She is survived by her husband Keith , two brothers Naceo (Inge) and Ben (Odessa) Giles, her sister Aziza Braithwaite-Bey (Robert), her three daughters Elena Braithwaite-Williams (Marty), Lisa Braithwaite-Peavy, Kimberly Ramsey (Ronald “EJ”), grandchildren Roderick, Trevor, Kurron, Kole, Keith Delton and Kai.

Pat will be buried next to her son, Keith David Braithwaite at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Cemetery in Pflugerville, Texas.