Patty Schvey (née Cohn), a woman who epitomized a zest for life, generosity of spirit, and boundless creativity, passed away peacefully on August 2nd at the age of 76, surrounded by her loving family. Patty was the daughter of Max and Edna Cohn, the wife of Henry I. Schvey for nearly 54 years, sister to Racey Cohn (Jerry Feldman), aunt to Gareth Mandel (Elena Lyrintzis), mother to Aram (Deborah Fleischaker), Jerusha, and Natasha (Garrett Conway), and beloved Mima to her five grandchildren: Evan, Julian, Livia, Gavi, and Noa.
Patty was born and raised in St. Louis, graduating from University City High School in 1965. She earned her BS in Education from the University of Wisconsin and her MA in English Literature from Indiana University. She and Henry lived in the Netherlands from 1973 to 1987, after which they returned to St. Louis for the next 35 years. During this time, Patty dedicated her time and energy to multiple causes including the Stix International House, the AIDS Foundation, and the Miriam Shop. In 2022, Patty and Henry moved to Bethesda, MD to be close to their children and grandchildren.
Patty wore many hats- poet, writer, mother, teacher, advocate, muse, doll collector, patron of the arts, protector of stray animals, and so many more. She lived with gusto, and relished all that life had to offer with equal measure: a doodle from her grandchild was as awe-inspiring as a visit to a museum, a piece of homemade banana bread was as memorable as a five-star meal. Patty possessed a boisterous laugh and the magical gift of making those she was with feel safe, special, and seen. She was welcoming and accepting to all, never hesitating to pull an extra seat up to the table, both literally as well as figuratively. She was the very best storyteller, gave the biggest hugs, and could make up a song on the spot for any occasion. She enveloped those in her life with warmth, playfulness, and genuine care and compassion. Her capacity for love was truly boundless, and, lucky for us all, she never missed an opportunity to express it- whether through homecooked meals, care packages, long phone calls, surprise parties, letters sent in the mail, or simply an emoji-filled text message expressing her gratitude and affection.
We miss her beyond measure, but will strive to honor her legacy by keeping our arms, hearts, and tables always and unconditionally open to others. If you are inclined to donate in her memory, we suggest the following charities near and dear to her: The Cat Network of St. Louis and the National Council of Jewish Women.
