WILMINGTON — Patricia L. Sroka, born on September 11, 1952, in Syracuse, New York, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026, in Wilmington, North Carolina, at the age of 73. Her life was a testament to love, devotion, and the power of family.
From a young age, Patricia devoted herself to her family and faith, raising her children with an abundance of love and patience. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family into her career as a hair stylist, a profession she joyfully pursued for fifty-five years. Not only did she create beauty through her craft, but she also shared her knowledge and passion by teaching cosmetology, touching countless lives along the way.
Patricia found great joy in spending time with her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She had an extraordinary ability to bring her family together, a gift that was most evident in their immediate response to her passing. In the days following, they gathered to pray, share laughter, and tell stories that could only have been shared because of her enduring presence in their lives.
Though it seems impossible to imagine writing new chapters without Patricia, her spirit continues to inspire those she leaves behind. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her husband, three children, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Each will carry forward the lessons of love, unity, and strength she imparted.
Patricia was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Edward J. Duell and Alice Duell.
Patricia is survived by her husband, Michael, whom she was married to for 33 wonderful years; their three children: Ryan Minkler (Terri), Renee Long (Jeremy) and David Sroka (Katie); eight grandchildren: Alyssa, Joshua, Hannah, Wesley, Zoe, Silas, Aubrey and Alexandra; two great-grandchildren: Alexis and Isabella; special cousin, Bill (Patty); sister-in-law, Kathy, along with several nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Patricia’s remarkable life will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, in the chapel of Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, located at 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403.
In this time of remembrance, we honor Patricia’s life, cherishing the memories she created and the love she so generously shared. Her journey may have ended here on earth, but her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the stories and hearts of those who knew and loved her.
