Patricia Jane Chandler

Old Lyme- Pat Chandler was a young bride and mother who worked various jobs to help support her family during lean financial times in her 20’s and 30’s. She earned a degree from Rutgers University the same year that her son received a college degree – it was a graduation party for the ages. Pat was a grandmother when she graduated from NYU Law School with honors and went on to practice environmental law. Recounting her accomplishments as a wife, mother, student and lawyer only tells a portion of the story.

Pat was a champion of the underdog. As an ardent feminist at a time before equality was a mainstream concept, she fought passionately for women’s rights. Pat marched on D.C. multiple times in support of women and indigenous people. While seeking to rectify injustices, she refused to take no for an answer, her resolve providing assistance for those suffering discrimination as well as a life lesson for her children. She was a very active member of the ACLU.

Her story is also a love story. Pat passed away several days after what would have been her 70th wedding anniversary, her husband Bob having passed several weeks prior to that anniversary date. Madly in love from the time they were teenagers, Pat and Bob were inseparable in life as they were in death.

Pat Chandler is survived by her daughter Gerriann Jackson, son Jeff Chandler and grandchildren Joshua Jackson, Maxwell Jackson, Sam Chandler and Tess Chandler, also sister Donna Kuykendall.

To honor Mrs. Chandler’s wishes, no services will be held at this time.

Please visit www.fultontherouxoldlyme.com to leave a tribute for the family.