INDIAN LAND, SC ~ Mrs. Patricia “Pat” Ann Ferguson Meahan Gardner, age 92, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 2nd, 2026. She was born on January 1, 1934, in Queens, NY, a daughter of the late Richard Ferguson and the late Katherine Manley Ferguson.
Patricia found great joy in the simple blessings of life. She loved tending to her garden, spending quiet moments reading, and searching for a good bargain with her sister Eileen, wherever they went. One of the greatest highlights of her days were the frequent visits from her beloved cousin, Geroge Ryan, and his wife, Kathy. Their faithful presence, love, and companionship brought her immeasurable comfort and happiness, and the time they shared together was truly treasured.
Patricia also cherished the many years she spent in Hilton Head before relocating to Indian Land. During her many years of living in Hilton Head she created countless treasured memories with her beloved cousin, Jimmy Ryan and Donna. One of her favorite traditions was afternoon cocktail hour, which was a time filled with laughter, stories, and the simple joy of being all together.
Patricia is lovingly survived by her five children, Kathleen Clark, Richard Meahan Jr, and his wife Pat Meahan, Jennifer Powers, and her husband, Jim Powers, Michael Meahan, and Kenneth Meahan; 13 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; her sister, Eileen O’Keefe; and many beloved cousins, extended family and friends.
Patricia is preceded in death by her first husband, the love of her life, Richard Meahan; her second husband, John Gardner; her son-in-law, Douglas Clark; her parents, Richard and Katherine Ferguson; and her sister, Alice Coyne.
Patricia will be laid to rest beside her first husband Richard Meahan, who was the love of her life at Spring Grove Cemetery in Darien, CT. The family will hold a Celebration of Life Graveside Service for Patricia at 2:00pm on Monday, August 24, 2026, officiated by Father Liam of Saint John Catholic Church of Darien, CT. Services will be held at Spring Grove Cemetery, 41 Hecker Ave., Darien, CT 06820.
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Thomas Hyslip lives in Tega Cay with his wife and daughter. After 27 years in the U.S. Army and Federal Law Enforcement, he retired to pursue his passion for teaching. Tom is now an Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida. In 2 short years he has won 10 awards from the South Carolina Press Association, including first place in column writing, education beat reporting and best podcast.
