Patricia Ailsworth Gwitt, lovingly known as “Patsy,” passed away on Monday, Dec. 8, 2025, in Dunwoody, Ga., of natural causes.
Patricia was born on April 1, 1942, in Deltaville, the daughter of the late Robert D. Ailsworth and Lelia B. Ailsworth. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ronald J. Gwitt.
The youngest of 11 children, Patricia was the last surviving Ailsworth sibling. She was also preceded in death by her four brothers — Dr. Robert D. Ailsworth Jr., James Raynor Ailsworth, Alfred “Apple” Ailsworth, and Herbert Allen “Mike” Ailsworth — and her six sisters — Evelyn Apsley, Virginia Steinmetz, Amanda Payne, Elizabeth Fuller, Dorothy Burroughs and Phyllis Ailsworth.
Patricia was a graduate of Middlesex High School and continued her education at Westhampton College at the University of Richmond. She later pursued her passion for interiors and design at the Chamberlain School of Retailing in Boston, Mass., a fashion and business college for women, where she earned her degree.
In 1960, Patricia was honored as Miss Virginia State Fair and went on to flourish in numerous pageants. A gifted singer, she later shared her talent through her church choir, bringing joy to those around her. Early in her career, she worked in the millinery department at Woodward & Lothrop in Washington, D.C., where her keen eye for style and design truly blossomed.
Throughout her life, Patricia was deeply devoted to service and community. She volunteered extensively at St. Joseph’s Hospital, where she later served as president of the auxiliary. She also worked in public relations and was employed by the Arthritis Foundation.
Above all, Patricia was a devoted mother and loving caregiver to her daughter, Melinda. She cherished her family — especially her sisters — and held the bonds of family close throughout her life.
Patricia is survived by her daughter, Melinda Gwitt of Dunwoody, Ga., as well as numerous nieces and nephews who will remember her with great love and affection.
A graveside service is planned for 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 16, at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Ga. A celebration of Patricia’s life will take place this summer in her hometown of Deltaville.
