Rock Hill, SC – Patricia “Pat” Thornton Winston, 83, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025, at the Wayne T. Patrick Hospice House in Rock Hill SC.
Born on January 14, 1942, in Miami, Florida, to Charles and Isabel Thornton, Pat’s life was defined by her love for her family, and her resilience in the face of adversity. She is survived by her husband of over 63 years, Richard Gerald “Jerry” Winston whom she met on a blind date on May 6, 1960. While neither expected a second date, it turns out that fate had other plans. The two were married in December of 1961.
Pat is also survived by their three children: Timothy “Tim” Winston, David “Dave” Winston, and Karen Winston as well as her three grandchildren: Victoria McGowan (Kyle), Ryan Rojas (Emily), and David Winston. She was very proud of her children and grandchildren, and loved them very much. Her memory will no doubt live on in their lives.
Preceding her in death are her sister, and best friend, Shirley Swarens, and her brother Saylor Thornton.
Throughout her life Pat was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, and grandmother who always put her family needs before her own. Her care giving extended to her mother in her later years, and she lovingly cared for her children throughout their lives trying to make sure they had everything they needed. Pat’s commitment to her family was her life’s purpose.
Later in life Pat was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease that took a serious toll on her quality of life and on her life as a whole.
Pat’s warmth, kindness, and humor touched everyone who knew her. She had a rare ability to make those around her feel seen and valued, and her absence leaves a profound emptiness in the hearts of family and friends. As Jerry has often said, she was “one of the best people on the face of the earth”. The world was truly a better place with Pat in it.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Pat’s memory to the Wayne T. Patrick Hospice House in Rock Hill, SC or the Parkinson’s Foundation.
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A memorial service is planned for Monday, August 18, starting at 2:00pm at Greene Funeral Home Northwest Chapel, 2133 Ebenezer Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29732.
Condolences can be made at www.greenefuneralhome.net