Patrick Joseph McWilliams

IN LOVING MEMORY

Patrick Joseph "PJ" McWilliams

February 1, 1947 - October 16, 2024

A TRUE SON OF DERRY

It is with great sadness that the family of Patrick Joseph McWilliams announce his peaceful passing on October 16, 2024 at the age of 77, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on February 1, 1947 in Maghera, County Derry, Northern Ireland. Patrick "PJ" was the son of the late Patrick (Patsy) and Mary Ellen McWilliams (McErlean). Patrick is survived by his wife Caroline (Verrocchio), his sons Sean, Patrick (Michelle), and his grandchildren: Sean Patrick, Connor James, Zachary David, Declan Patrick, and Victoria Lorraine.

The eldest of 7 children, Patrick was predeceased by his brothers Sean and Kevin who died as children in Ireland. Patrick assumed the role of family patriarch shortly after immigrating to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on October 16, 1954 and is also survived by his siblings, Seamus (Sandra), Eamon (Kim), Rosaleen (Paul), Stephen (Lena), and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family both in the United States and in Ireland. Patrick's passing on October 16th is the 70th anniversary of arriving in Philadelphia. He celebrated this special day every year with his family.

Patrick was a US Army veteran who served in the military from 1965 to 1968. He remained stateside during the Vietnam War due to his patriarchal duties to his young siblings after his father's passing. Upon his honorable discharge, he began working for The Reading Railroad which became Conrail. Upon his retirement from Conrail he began working for Bombardier and was instrumental in starting the Riverline for New Jersey Transit. Patrick continued his work within the railroad business, consistently advancing his career for over 50 successful years. Patrick was known as a valued leader within The Reading, Conrail, and Riverline Railroads due to his tremendous work ethic, knowledge and skills.

Patrick was also heavily involved in the Derry Society (Commodore John Barry Center) in Philadelphia as President as well as serving as the Grand Marshall of the 1986 Derry Ball succeeding his Uncle James McErlean who also served as President of the Society.

Patrick enjoyed traveling with his wife and children, making many trips back to Ireland to visit with family. He also enjoyed spending time in Atlantic City at many casinos, and was frequently graced with 'The Luck of The Irish.' Post retirement, Patrick ensured he spent every available moment with his children, grandchildren, and extended family.

Patrick will always be remembered by his family and friends for the love, generosity, and tenacity he exhibited throughout his life and will be deeply missed.

"The grief of our loss may be with us for a long time, but the joy of our memories will stay forever." - Irish Blessing

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him. A viewing will be held on October 17, 2025 at Queen of the Universe, Levittown, PA from 9:30 to 10:30 AM, Followed by a Christian Mass from 11:00 to 12:00 PM. Interment will follow, 1:00 PM at Washington Crossing National Cemetery, Newtown PA. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation https://t2t.org/.