Patricia Joyce Chestnut (née Bailey) entered the everlasting presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Friday, January 30, 2026. Beloved by her family, friends and former co-workers, Patty had a penchant for cobalt blue glass, a good book, Indian take-out, a fresh mani-pedi, a fountain Coke, those early Beatles albums, banana Italian ice, and a challenging jigsaw puzzle. She is survived by her husband of 52 years, John Chestnut of Holtsville, NY; her sons and their families: Robert, Audrey, Stella and Adria Chestnut of Ostrava, Czech Republic and Joshua, Sarah, Jacob and Lily Chestnut of Southborough, Massachusetts; her sister and brother, Laurie Tyson and Lee Bailey, and her father, Don Bailey.

Patty was born in New Castle, Pennsylvania on March 24, 1951. She was the oldest daughter of Don and Robbie Bailey. She grew up in Black Mountain, NC and attended Columbia Bible College in South Carolina where she met John Chestnut of Morehead City, NC. The couple was married in Rock Hill, SC on August 11, 1973, and they spent the first few years of marriage in Arkansas and Mississippi, and then followed God’s call for John to attend seminary in Indiana and pastor churches in North Carolina, Brooklyn, New York, New Jersey and finally, Long Island. Patty raised their sons, Robert and Joshua, worked in banking and insurance (retiring from Edwards and Company in 2023), and lived a compassionate life of service and sacrifice for those around her. She delighted in welcoming her daughters-in-law into the Chestnut family with a big hug, and then her grandchildren. “Nonnie” was a formidable “Spot It” opponent, an excellent snuggler for long Bluey viewings, a joyful tea party-goer, and was always curious to know what her grandkids were reading (and often read favorites alongside them—Harry Potter!).

While her mobility diminished significantly in her final years, the joy of Patty’s signature laugh did not. She will be remembered for her consistency and capacity for contentment (“the Lord is in control”), and all who knew and loved her will miss her kind and easygoing presence.

All are welcome for visitation with the family at Grace Gospel Church from 2 – 5 p.m.  Further visiting from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., with a service at 7:30 p.m.  

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