Patricia Lorraine Crooks, born on December 18, 1934 in Dunkirk, passed away peacefully in hospice on Monday, June 22, 2026 in The Woodlands, TX. She was born on December 18, 1934.
Patricia grew up in Dunkirk and graduated as salutatorian in her class from Dunkirk High School. Marriage moved her away, landing her in Houston, TX in 1963.
While she missed her large family in New York dearly, Texas grew on her and she mastered smoking a mean brisket, worthy of competition at any cook off. She baked the superior, best darn Christmas cookies every year and thankfully, passed the legendary recipe on to her daughters, whose husbands and children are most grateful.
Patricia had a keen intellect, a surprising wit, and a perceptive sense of humor. She was a devout Catholic, was not a fan of cats or trees, but she loved dogs, flowers, and ice cream. The color purple was her absolute favorite.
Patricia held insurmountable affection and delight for her seven grandchildren. They are what she viewed as her greatest gift to herself and contribution to the world. She was so proud of each one for the young adults they have become. With fond memories and infinite love, Patricia is deeply missed by all who knew and cared for her.
Patricia was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Sally Sikorski and sister, Leonore Palmer, all of Dunkirk; and her ex-husband, Sylvester James Crooks of Robstown, TX. She is survived by her four daughters, sons-in-law, and her grandchildren: Javier and Cynthia Saldana, Nick Saldana and Christian Saldana of Tomball, TX, Don and Cheryl Harris and Kaitlyn Harris of The Woodlands, TX, Charles and Lisa Fisher, McKenzie Fisher and Hunter Fisher of Madisonville, TX, and Jody and Christine Van Meter, Evan Van Meter and Braden Van Meter of Indian Land, SC.
A Mass and interment will be held in Dunkirk in September.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.
