Patsy Ann Applegate

Patsy Ann “Pat” Applegate (née Taylor), age 93, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2025, in Rockford, Illinois.

Born on December 12, 1931, in Toledo, Ohio, Pat was the daughter of Fred and Ursula Taylor. As a young girl, she moved with her family to Wheaton, Illinois, where they settled into a large home at 1039 College Avenue. She attended Wheaton Community High School—later known as Wheaton Central—where she met the love of her life, Arthur "Lee" Applegate. Their paths crossed through a friendship Pat shared with Lee’s sister while he was serving in the Navy.

In 1951, Pat and Lee were married in a heartfelt ceremony held in the side yard of her family home on College Avenue. The newlyweds began their life together during Lee’s naval service. After his discharge, they returned to Wheaton and lived in several apartments above storefronts in the downtown area before settling into country life in Pleasant Hill in the late 1950s. Lee became a police officer for the City of Wheaton during this time.

In 1981, Pat and Lee relocated to Virginia's east coast where they co-owned Grey's Point Camp with members of Lee’s extended family. Following Lee’s passing in 1995, Pat returned to Illinois in 2000 with her daughter and grandchildren, making Rockford her home for the remainder of her life.

Pat was deeply devoted to her role as a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her greatest joy came from spending time with her family. She is lovingly remembered by her children: Bonnie Applegate; Robert Applegate; Sheryl (Applegate) Rodriguez; Jerry Applegate; and daughter-in-law Darlene Rygiel-Applegate. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Todd (Shelly) Applegate; Jennifer (John) Wright; Joe (Rosie) Applegate; Jenessa Gac; and Christopher Applegate; as well as great-grandchildren Savannah Wright, Victoria Wright, and Jason Claus.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Arthur Lee Applegate; her parents Fred and Ursula Taylor; two brothers and four sisters along with their spouses.

Pat had many passions that brought color and warmth to her life. She loved reading and could often be found immersed in a good book. Camping and traveling were among her favorite pastimes—adventures she cherished throughout the years with family by her side. A talented crafter and gardener, she found joy working with her hands whether tending flowers or creating handmade treasures. One of her most enduring legacies is the more than 250 personalized Christmas stockings she lovingly knitted for family members over the years—a testament to both her creativity and deep affection for those she held dear.

May Patsy Ann “Pat” Applegate’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on June 7, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 06:00 PM at Fitzgerald Funeral Home 1860 South Mulford Road