Patricia E. Stenz

Patricia E. Stenz Penn Yan, NY

Patricia E. Stenz, of Penn Yan, NY, was born November 12, 1946, in Wayne, PA, and passed away on September 21, 2025, as a result of a tragic house fire on September 19.

Patricia’s life was filled with hard work, creativity, and community. Over the years she worked in real estate, as a hair stylist and nail technician (“Nails Down Pat”), and held many positions as a cook and bartender throughout the community.

She enjoyed good food and wine, cooking and baking, sewing, and quilting. Her home was always open to everyone—especially anyone her children brought through the door. She loved to entertain and prepare large meals for family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. She also loved traveling with her dear friends Nan and Daisy, playing Euchre, and serving veterans through her work at the American Legion—a role she was especially proud of given her family’s history of service.

Patricia was a previous member of the American Legion Auxiliary, the Moose Lodge, and the Board of Assessment Review. When her children were younger, she was active in the Mothers of Twins Club, Vacation Bible School, and Girl Scouts, including leading Brownies.

She was predeceased by her parents, Floyd C. and Maybelle P. Sampson; brothers, William and Ronald Sampson; her daughter, Heather Russell; grandson, Ethan Parker; and her beloved uncle and aunt, Lester and Ruth, with whom she was very close.

Patricia is survived by her husband, Woody Stenz, who lovingly described her as not only his wife but his friend; her children, Jennifer (Thomas) Murdock, Rebecca (Michael) Cornish, Bethany Russell (dear friend Kipp Allison), and Will Stenz; grandchildren, Aiden Russell, Griffin Olsen (girlfriend Peyton), Derrick Cornish (fiancée Carlee), and Devin Cornish (girlfriend Sidney); great-granddaughters, Hazel and Hadlee; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the American Legion in Penn Yan.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and remembered for her love of family, community, and the many lives she touched.