Patricia Grala

Patricia (Patty) Grala, 64 of Oxford died Friday August 20, 2021 at UMass Hospital. Born in Worcester, Patty was the daughter of James L. Miller, and Patricia (Dowd) Miller. A long-time resident of Oxford, a graduate of Algonquin Regional High School and former Office Manager for Bigelow Nursery of Northborough, Patty will be remembered for her love of family, friends and of course her many cats and dogs whom she loved to care for. 

Patty was the oldest of six siblings and she was fiercely protective of her family. Patty leaves her dear mother Patricia Miller, one brother James J. Miller ,and three sisters, Michele Rickert and her husband Gary, Frances Frost and her husband Thomas, and Sandra Miller. She also leaves her nieces, Kelly Kaupilla, Christine Graven, Sarah Frost, Courtney Rickert, Abby Rickert and one great nephew Harrison Graven. Patty was predeceased by her father James L. Miller, 1981, her husband William Grala, 2013, and her brother Michael Miller, 1980.

Patty lived her life as a leader who independently paved her own path to meet her goals. Her journey was never altered by outside perspectives. Patty’s generosity for her family, specifically her nieces and nephew, proves her altruism to the fullest. Patty was a nature enthusiast who loved to watch the songbirds at her bird feeder. Her love of animals did not stop there, as she cared for dozens of pets throughout her lifetime. When she was not caring for others, whether it be animals or her family, Patty could be found indulging in her love for the English language by playing Words with Friends. 

Funeral services for Patty will be held at the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME AND CHAPEL 370 Plantation St. Worcester, Ma 01605. Calling hours will be held on Friday September 3, 2021 from 10-11am followed by a memorial service at 11am. Burial will follow at St. John’s Cemetery in Worcester. 

Floral arrangements are welcomed, or if preferred, memorial contributions to the Massachusetts Humane Society Incorporated at www.masshumane.org are welcomed as well. 

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