Patrick Joseph Lennon of Cleveland, TN, died at SkyRidge Medical Center in Cleveland on Tuesday, February 26, 2013.
Patrick was the eldest child of Michael John Lennon and Elizabeth Gallagher Lennon. The Lennons came to the United States from Ireland and Patrick was born in New York City on March 9, 1931. Pat was raised in the Bronx and graduated from Cardinal Hayes High School where he excelled in basketball, track, and boxing before joining the United States Air Force. During his military service, Pat was stationed in San Juan, Puerto Rico where he met the equally determined and passionate Lydia Flores. Pat and Lydia married in New York City on his birthday, March 9, 1957.
Pat continued his education and earned degrees from both Fordham University and Lamar University. In 1962, Pat achieved a lifelong goal of joining the Federal Bureau of Investigation as a Special Agent. He played a role in many investigations but was particularly proud of his work advancing important civil rights cases. Pat earned a reputation for dedication and unique professionalism with the FBI. He was an exemplary husband and father. He and Lydia raised seven children as they moved from New York City to Tampa, Florida before calling Cleveland their home. Pat and Lydia enjoyed a rich spiritual life supported by their close friends and parishioners at St. Therese Catholic Church. Pat was active in the Knights of Columbus and enjoyed spending time with his family at home and on the golf course.
In addition to his parents, Pat was preceded in death by his wife Lydia who died in 2001; and his sister Bridie who died in January 2013.
He is survived by his sister, Rita McDowell; his brother, Michael Lennon; his children, Patrick Lennon, Jr and wife Maureen, Elizabeth Lennon, Thomas Lennon and wife Mary Lane, John Lennon and wife Kathy, Maria Lennon Vernon and husband Jim, Kathleen Lennon Comer and husband Bragg and Michael Lennon; 14 grandchildren; and five great-granddaughters.
A memorial mass will be held at St. Therese at 11 a.m. Thursday, February 28, followed by a reception in Breen Hall.
Memorials may be directed to St. Therese Catholic Church or a charity of one’s choice.
Ralph Buckner Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.