The recent passing of Patricia Aust, fondly known as Patsy, has left her local neighbourhood in a state of profound shock and sorrow. In the thanksgiving service held at St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Bangor, Co Down, Reverend Mark Johnston elaborated on Patsy’s adoration for children. This sentiment extended to her career, where she dedicated her life to teaching.
Earlier this month, the lifeless body of this beloved retired teacher and grandmother was discovered at a domicile in Bangor’s Hawthorne Court. Patricia’s older brother, Jim Moore, aged 85, has since been taken into custody and accused of her murder, coming before the magistrates in Newtownards court, although details of the crime are yet to be publicly disclosed.
Within his eulogy for the late Aust, Rev Johnston noted her close relationship with her now incarcerated brother. As a parishioner of the very church where her memorial service was held, Patsy had taught Sunday School. Rev Johnston reflected on her life journey, from her humble beginnings as Patricia Ann Moore in Bangor to her years spent teaching abroad in Malta, as well as her time in Palma, Majorca, where her son Garreth was born.
Following her overseas sojourn, Patricia returned to Northern Ireland, procuring a position as vice principal of Lindsey School, part of the Forster Green Hospital network. A special affection was held for children with special needs, and she invested tirelessly in them, aiding their growth and development.
Rev Johnston highlighted that Patsy’s primary devotion was to her son and, more recently, to her cherished grandson Brody, ensuring they never lacked for anything. Guided by her Christian values of unselfish love, kindness, respect and gentleness, she consciously instilled these tenets in both Garreth and Brody.
In a poignant finale, Rev Johnston informed the congregation of the significant blow Patsy faced when her son passed unexpectedly last year.
“He stated, “In the past nine months, Patsy, heartbroken over loss, along with her sibling Jim, attempted to their utmost to provide Brody with upbringing, to ensure his survival in a world bereft of his father. Patsy leaned greatly on the affection and backing from Jim; together they diligently exerted themselves in their affectionate care for Brody.
“They backed each other through challenging times and shielded each other daily as they faced an enormous amount of adversity recently. Patsy was seldom seen without Jim and likewise Jim was scarcely spotted without Patsy. They emerged as a reliable pair, dedicated to one another, devoted to Brody and their family and friends throughout this community.”
He carried on, “Tragically, Patsy passed away at Garreth’s residence a fortnight ago on a Sunday. Her demise stirred shockwaves of grief across the community. Patsy’s warmth, kindness, compassion especially towards children, and her resilience and strength that inspired us to persist, will be sorely missed. She will be deeply mourned by numerous individuals, particularly and most importantly by Jim and Brody, her family, and intimate friends who cherished her until the end.” A private burial service was held later. – PA