Patricia Duffy Balthis

Patricia Duffy Balthis, 82, passed away peacefully November 2, 2026, surrounded by family. Raised in Arlington, VA, she was the daughter of the late Edward Francis Duffy and Lelia Williams Duffy.

Shortly after Pat graduated from Yorktown High School in 1962, a mutual friend introduced her to Harry Griffith (Grif) Balthis, Jr., who became the love of her life. They wed in 1964 and eventually moved to Delaware, then Maryland, to raise their family. Pat and Grif recently celebrated 62 years of marriage.

A devoted mother, Pat poured her heart into raising her two children, selflessly supporting them and putting their needs above her own. Through the years, Pat delighted in making each birthday, special occasion, and key event in their lives memorable.

After retiring from the University of Delaware, Pat thrived as a full-time “Gramma.” Patient and playful, she enthusiastically hosted sleepovers, faithfully attended school and sports events, and proudly celebrated important milestones. On holidays, her home was warm, filled with traditions like Easter egg hunts, Thanksgiving mac ’n’ cheese, and Christmas brunch.

Pat cherished every moment spent traveling with her family, creating lasting memories on adventures from Bermuda vacations to Walt Disney World trips to Hawaiian Islands holidays. She especially loved gathering at Bethany Beach, DE, enjoying annual 4th of July fireworks and appreciating beautiful summer sunsets.

In 2018, Pat and Grif moved to The Ponds at Bayberry South in Middletown, DE, where they made many wonderful, supportive friends. Most afternoons, neighbors could find Pat on her deck, welcoming them with a big smile and easy conversation.

In addition to Grif, Pat is survived by two children, Mike Balthis (Ann) and Kathy Balthis, and three grandsons, Brendan Balthis, Brett Balthis, and Ryan Badolato. She was predeceased by her brother, Edward F. Duffy, Jr., in 2010.

The family is grateful for the compassionate care Pat received from her medical team at Christiana Care and Medical Oncology Hematology Consultants.

A visitation for family and friends will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 16, 2027, at The Ponds at Bayberry South Clubhouse, 5401 South Bayberry Parkway, Middletown, DE, after which a Celebration of Life will begin at 12 noon. A luncheon reception will immediately follow. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please honor Pat’s memory by contributing to Faithful Friends Animal Society, 165 Airport Road, New Castle, DE 19720 or online by clicking here; or to the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute, ChristianaCare Office of Philanthropy,  4000 Nexus Drive, Suite W3-300, Wilmington, DE 19803 or online by clicking here.