Patricia Jean Zajac 1947-2022 UTICA-Patricia Jean Zajac, 75, of Utica, passed away on Wednesday, February 2, 2022 at her home with her loving daughter by her side. Patricia was born in Utica, NY on February 1, 1947, the daughter of Thomas and Evelyn (Horton) Zajac. She was a graduate of Whitesboro High School and spent some time in Huntington Beach, CA furthering her studies at Gold West Community College. For years, Patricia was employed as a nurses aide with Faxton Hospital in Utica. She was a parishioner of Holy Trinity Church and a dedicated volunteer with the American Red Cross. Patricia was very active in the community. She was instrumental in so many aspects of trying to get the City of Utica and especially her own neighborhood, into shape. She was a graduate of the first Utica Police Department Citizen’s police academy, one of the biggest supporters of the Block Associations, and a strong proponent of the Weed & Seed Program. A lot of her efforts helped to create many noteworthy programs and initiatives in the City. Patricia was also very much involved with local politics and for many years served as a very active committee member with the Democrat and Independence Party and a constant advocate for improvements in her West Utica neighborhood. She was affectionately named by a former Utica Common Council Member “the Mayor of Francis Street” for her advocacy work. She had a kind heart and cared very much about her pets and many of the stray cats in her neighborhood, and often fed and housed them. Pat also love to celebrate holidays. Her decorations and giving spirit brought happiness to family, friends and even strangers that Pat would share food and treats with around the neighborhood. Patricia is survived by her daughter Mary T. Zajac of Alexandria, VA who she was very proud of, particularly of her service in the U.S. Air Force, one sister, Marcella Pyrputniewicz of NC, and husband Wayne as well as sister-in-law law Virginia (Stephen) Zajac and nephews Christian and Mathew Zajac and niece Sabrae Zajac in TX and cousins, Sue Horton Santilli, Edwin Horton, Darlene Koppes, Cindy Richards and their mother Roberta Horton of Remsen, NY. She was predeceased by two brothers, Stephen Zajac and John Zajac. In keeping with Patricia’s wishes there are no calling hours. A celebration of Patricia’s life is being planned for the Spring. Arrangements have been entrusted to Heintz Funeral Service, Inc., Utica. Messages of sympathy may be shared at www.heintzfuneralservice.net