Patricia "Patti" Balanky

Patricia “Patti” Balanky, a beloved wife, mother, sister, friend, and humanitarian, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025, at the age of 87. Patti’s warmth, humor, and boundless compassion touched all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Patti was born and raised in Pasadena, California. In 1954, she met the love of her life, David Balanky, while he was on shore leave in San Diego with the U.S. Navy. They were introduced by her cousin who was also David’s shipmate. On the day the two met, David famously declared, “I’m going to marry that girl.” Just three months later, the couple were wed. They raised three children on campus at Florida State University where David was a student and circus performer. They settled and made their home in Jacksonville, Florida where David’s family has resided for nearly 100 years. In November of 2024, the couple celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.

A retired nurse of more than 30 years and natural healer, Patti devoted her life to the well-being of others. Alongside David, she made 22 humanitarian trips to Haiti, working closely with Dr. George Fipp, Dr. John Lovejoy, Jr. and the CRUDEM Foundation to support the construction and furnishing of a hospital and orthopedic lab. Their direct efforts saved hundreds of lives, particularly in the aftermath of the devastating 2010 earthquake. Patti’s enduring spirit of service and kindness left an indelible mark on the Haitian communities they served. She and David were also dedicated docents at the Cummer Museum teaching children to appreciate art.

Known as the family historian, Patti had a brilliant memory and could recall even the smallest details of friends, family stories, and milestones. Her love for her family was unmatched. Her laughter and light filled every room she entered.

She is survived by her devoted husband David; her children Michelle, Vincent, and Michael (Gayle); her grandchildren Chase (Jennifer), Evan Rosenberg (Brittany), and Hannah Daughtry; her great-grandchildren Nyah and Della Joy; sisters Jacquelynn Power, Victoria Morales (Jackie), and Kathleen Taylor (Brooks); extended family Jeannine Balanky, and Ed Houstoun (Linda) as well as many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

Funeral Services are in the care of Naugle Funeral Home and Cremation Services located at 1203 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida 32207.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 9th at 3:00 p.m. at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Chapel, 4801 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Patti’s honor to the CRUDEM Foundation at www.crudem.org, continuing her legacy of healing and humanitarianism or to the Cummer Art Museum at www.cummermuseum.org.