A Life Story

Helen Patricia Dwyer McKenna (Patty) entered God's eternal Kingdom on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. She passed away peacefully at her home in Thunderbolt, surrounded by her family. During her illness, Patty received love, compassion, and comfort from Hospice Savannah.Patty was born on February 25, 1941, and was a lifelong resident of Thunderbolt. She was the youngest daughter of Judge Lawrence J. Dwyer and Helen Howard Dwyer. She was preceded in death by her sister, Sherry Dwyer Beasley. A devout member of Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church, Patty was actively involved in the parish choir.Patty attended parochial schools and graduated from Saint Vincent's Academy in 1960. During her time at Saint Vincent's, she developed a love for music, which she continued to nurture throughout her life. After graduation, she became a member of the Saint Vincent's Alumnae Choir.After retiring from the Chatham County Elections Board, Patty remained deeply involved in her community. She was a member of the Nativity Women's Auxiliary and the Georgia Historical Society. Patty was also a charter member of the Thunderbolt Museum Society and served as secretary of the Daughters of Ireland.In 1962, Patty married John H. McKenna Jr. Together, they had four children: Lawrence McKenna, Patrick McKenna, Julia Sinclair (Steve), and Sherry Ann McKenna (John Bayides). She was also blessed with eight grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.Visitation services will begin at 10:00am on Friday, January 17, 2025, at Saint Peter and Paul Parish at Nativity Church, followed by a Celebration of Life Mass. Burial will follow at Bonaventure Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Lawrence McKenna, Joseph McKenna, Max Neidlinger, Johnnie Beasley, George Howard, and Patrick Howard.In memory of Patty, the family requests donations to Saint Vincent's Academy.