Patricia "Pat" (Stoner) Dent passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, family, and deep faith that will live on through all who knew her. Pat was born on February 24, 1935, to John and Carrie Stoner. She was one of eight children, the only daughter growing up on a dairy farm alongside her brothers. At a time when it was far less common for women to pursue higher education, Patricia attended Gettysburg College, an accomplishment that reflected both her determination and her belief in the power of learning. She went on to become an elementary school teacher, a role she loved deeply and devoted more than three decades. Teaching was not simply a profession to her, it was a calling. She poured her energy into her students and cared deeply about every one of them. It was nearly impossible to go anywhere with her without someone stopping to say hello and share that she had once been their teacher, a testament to the countless lives she touched throughout her years in the classroom. Pat was preceded in death by her beloved husband Edward "Larry" Dent, to whom she was married for 48 years. Together they built a life centered around family, faith, and a mutual love for the Philadelphia Phillies. Pat was the proud mother of Pam and Mike, and the loving grandmother of Megan and Jordan. She was also blessed to become a great-grandmother to Luciana, a role that brought her tremendous joy. Nothing made Pat happier than time spent with her family. She never missed a game, event, or milestone in her grandchildren’s lives, always showing up with encouragement and pride. And like any wonderful grandmother, she had her own traditions-you never left her house without a full belly, a few peppermint patties, and ten dollars tucked into your hand "for gas". She also found joy in the simple things that made life beautiful. Patricia loved gardening and caring for her flowers, took great pride in her church and the community she built there, and enjoyed traveling around the world. She was a loyal fan of the Philadelphia Phillies and Maryland basketball, and she had a well-known love for ice cream. In her honor, the family encourages everyone to enjoy a twist cone, just as she would have liked. Pat will be remembered for her compassion, kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for her family and friends. Her willingness to help those in need knew no barriers, had no boundaries, and was always offered without strings. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit lives on in the many students she taught, the family she cherished, and the countless memories she created with all those who loved her. She is survived by her children, Pam (Harold) and Mike (Vikki); her grandchildren, Megan (Michael) and Jordan; and her great-granddaughter, Luciana. A memorial service celebrating Patricia’s life will be held on Friday, March 13th at 11:00 am at First Lutheran Church in Chambersburg. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages those wishing to honor Pat’s memory to do a simple act of kindness for someone else, or to call a family member you haven’t talk to in a while! Online condolences may be expressed at sellersfuneralhome.com.
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