Patricia Ann McKinney (née Newsom), 78, of Jacksonville, Florida, a devout Catholic, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026, at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Jacksonville.
Born on March 17, 1947, also at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Jacksonville, Patricia was the daughter of Auburn and Mary Newsom. She was preceded in death by her half-brother, Earl Trusdale, and her late husband.
Patricia graduated from Jean Ribault High School, where she was a winner of the National Latin Language award. She enjoyed roller skating with her friends and was known for her beloved 1955 red and white Crown Victoria, which her mother bought new. She proudly drove the classic car from her high school days until just last year when she could no longer drive.
In the 1980s she was an active member of the Cloggin’ Robbins, a popular Jacksonville clogging group. She loved spending summers with her late husband and family in Gulf Breeze, West Florida, enjoying seine net fishing and deep sea fishing. She also loved gardening and being outdoors, especially on warm summer evenings rocking on the veranda. A kindhearted animal lover, Patricia often adopted stray cats and cared for the pets of neighbors who had passed away.
After graduating from high school, Patricia worked at a bank and as a secretary using her shorthand skills. While still in high school she had worked at a local bakery and served as a candy striper at Old Duval Hospital. She later worked as a school bus driver before changing careers and retiring from the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA).
A lifelong and devout Catholic, Patricia found great comfort and strength in her faith throughout her life.
She is survived by her son, Vincent Pearson; daughter-in-law, Jacqueline Pearson; and granddaughter, Lucia Pearson. She also cherished her longtime friends Sheryl, from junior high, and Joyce, a dear friend of many decades.
Add Comment