Patrick Thomas Slavin, In Loving Memory

March 22, 1947–May 20, 2026

THE VILLAGES, Fla. — Patrick Thomas Slavin, 79, of The Villages, formerly of Eldred, Pa., passed away Wednesday, May 20, 2026.

Born March 22, 1947, in Olean, N.Y., the son of the late Thomas Vincent Slavin and Mary Margaret Murphy Slavin, Patrick was a standout football player at Walsh High School before going on to play collegiate football at Bloomsburg University in Pennsylvania. He then earned a master’s degree in school sdministration from St. Bonaventure University.

Patrick began his career in education as a teacher and coach at Olean High School (1969–1979), where he coached varsity football, varsity golf and JV baseball, before serving as principal of Cuba (N.Y.) High School (1979–1986) and principal of Tonawanda (N.Y.) High School (1987–2002).

He was a past president of Section VI Athletics, a member of the NYS Buffalo Athletic Association, and a recipient of their Distinguished Service Award. He was also a proud member of the Olean Lions Club.

Upon retiring in 2002, he and Barbara settled in DeBary, before moving to The Villages in 2017, where he enjoyed golf, euchre and the company of cherished friends.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Barbara Pratt Slavin, married July 18, 1970; his son, Daniel Slavin; and daughter-in-law, Lidia; his grandson, James; his sister-in-law, Bette Otto; his sister, Michelle Yasson, whose husband Tom preceded him in death; and his brother, Colonel James Slavin (U.S. Army) and sister-in-law Gail. He is also survived by his nieces, Lyn, Kris, Trista and Allison; and preceded in death by his nephew, Chris.

Patrick’s life was guided by a deep mission to help young people recognize and fulfill their potential — a calling that shaped every role he held and left a lasting mark on all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.