Patricia A. Rifkin (née Berna), beloved wife, cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully after irreversible pulmonary complications.
Born on March 10th, 1947. She was 78.
Patricia was the embodiment of quiet strength, endless patience, and deep, unwavering love. She dedicated her life to her family with grace, gentleness, and a warm, steady presence that made everyone around her feel safe and seen.
A lifelong reader and passionate gardener, Patricia found beauty in the little things—blooming flowers, a good novel, and the simple joy of time spent with those she loved.
She also had a spark of sass and adventure that led her to savor time at the beach and even float through the skies in a hot air balloon. Patricia loved a margarita and often said that a good one can fix anything! Her great sense of humor and positive outlook lit up every room she entered, making even the hardest days a little lighter for those around her. Her life was a blend of tender devotion, spirited curiosity, and joyful resilience.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 43 years, Stanley Rifkin; her grateful daughter, Judith Brown; and three children by marriage, Beth Clark, Craig Rifkin and the late Leslie Feevish. Patricia was the proud grandmother of thirteen and great-grandmother of three.
She was a cherished sister to Anita Grzybowski, the late Chester Grzybowski, Gina Poskus and her husband Robert, and John Berna and his wife Jane. Their bond was one of lifelong love and support, and Patricia was deeply loved by each of them.
Her courage, kindness, and gentle soul will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.
Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing on Monday, May 5th from 9 to 10am am followed by her 10am funeral mass at
Maternity BVM Catholic Church, 9220 Old Bustleton Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19115. Interment will be private.
n lieu of flowers at the church, please consider a donation to
Gilda's Club of Warminster where you can use mom's name to plant a garden stake of wildflowers. Mom is breast cancer survivor and I know she would love this. 💓