WESTFIELD – Patricia “Patty” Austin, 76, of Westfield, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025. Born on August 2, 1948, in Brattleboro, Vermont, she was the beloved daughter of Helen and Porter Nutting.
Patty dedicated over three decades of her life to her career at Preferred Electronics (now ECI), where her commitment and work ethic left a lasting impression. Her professional life was marked by loyalty and perseverance, qualities that also defined her personal relationships.
She is lovingly remembered by her husband of almost 60 years, Wallace Austin; her son, Wade Austin; and her daughter-in-law, Simone Backstedt. Patty was a devoted grandmother to Nicole and her husband Andrew, Matthew, Sara and her husband David, Mollie, and Michael, and a proud great-grandmother to Tyler. She also leaves behind her sister Debbie Pike and brother-in-law Dennis; her brother Wesley Nutting; and many extended family members who cherished her deeply.
Patty was predeceased by her daughters Deanna Austin and Julianne Ethier; her parents Helen and Porter Nutting; her brother Kevin Nutting; and her sister Joyce King.
Known for her warmth and generosity, Patty had a gift for making everyone feel welcome. Her home was always open—whether someone stopped by for a visit or just happened to be passing through— she never hesitated to prepare a plate of food for anyone who walked through the door. Even if they had already eaten, she believed no one should leave hungry. Summers were especially dear to Patty. She loved camping trips and beach days with family and friends. Hosting family gatherings became one of her greatest joys—she brought people together with laughter, good food, and heartfelt hospitality. She had a zest for life that shone through in everything she did: dancing with joy at celebrations, playing darts with enthusiasm, enjoying motorcycle rides with loved ones, or simply organizing a picnic on a sunny afternoon. To those who knew her best—and even those who met her only briefly—Patty was more than just a mother or grandmother. She was the second mother to countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and neighborhood children who found comfort in her presence.
Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. May Patricia’s memory bring comfort and peace to those she touched throughout her remarkable life.
Calling hours will be held on Sunday, July 20, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Firtion Adams, 76 Broad Street, Westfield. There will be a celebration of life at 2:30 p.m. in the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like to have donations made to the American Cancer Society or to the Sister’s Caritas Cancer Center at Mercy Medical Center. www.firtionadams.com
