Patsy J Serra, Jr.'s Obituary
"Let me go, so I come right back."
Patsy J. Serra transitioned into his eternal home in Heaven, surrounded by his loving family, where he went to receive his Soul Winner's Crown.
Born and raised in Staten Island, New York, Patsy attended P.S. 41 Elementary School and graduated from McKee High School as a Master Automotive Technician. His exceptional mechanical talent was evident early on. In high-school, he won a contest for his remarkable skill. In his neighborhood, Pat became known for "souping up" hot rods and motorcycles, and he delighted in building minibikes and English racers. He often reminisced about racing in Brooklyn with his 1955 Chevy Bel Air 327 with a crate engine motor from Sears. Patsy could take apart any car, like a 1969 red Camaro, and repair it on the spot. His gift for mechanics was truly extraordinary. After graduation, he worked as a local truck driver and diesel mechanic, admired his precision and flawless driving maneuvers.
Life took a beautiful turn when Patsy met a humble, homespun New Jersey girl named Marcy. It was "love at first sight." He fell head over heels for her. They were together in total with marriage for 54 years. It was a milestone journey. In 2003, Patsy and Marcy left the New York/New Jersey metro area to pursue academic studies at Victory Bible Institute in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Patsy quickly became a devoted student of Scripture and later served as a small-group leader at his local church. He excelled in Old Testament studies and could recall the names of biblical figures all the way back to Noah.
Patsy was known for his quiet strength, confident demeanor, and his famous one-liners that always brought a smile. He especially cherished simple moments with all of his family. These simple moments were filled with conversation, laughter, and talk of current events.
His hobbies were many and reflected his creativity and passion for life. He loved cooking family dinners using his natural Italian culinary skills, and he had a special fondness for all kinds of pasta. In the 1990s, he entered a recipe contest for best appetizer and won first prize with his "Passionate Portobellos." Patsy was also a watch enthusiast who collected fine timepieces. He enjoyed classic films from the Humphrey Bogart era, as well as westerns featuring John Wayne and James Arness. Above all, he treasured spending time with his children, grandchildren, and his new Great Grandchild, each of whom brought him immense joy.
A proud American patriot, Patsy was a steadfast supporter of the 9/11 first-responder community and an unwavering advocate for veterans across all branches of the United States Armed Forces.
Patsy is survived by his devoted wife, Marcia Serra; his sons, Patsy Thomas Serra and Dean Serra; and his daughter, Kristin Gonzalez, and her husband, Carmelo. He is also survived by his siblings, Geraldine (Geri) Scotto and her husband Louis Scotto, Paul Serra and his spouse Luann Serra, Gail Decker and her husband Bill Decker, and Paula Serra.
He leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Valentino Gonzalez and newly wedded bride Lexi Gonzalez, and Marco Gonzalez, as well as his precious Great Grandchild, Rocky Steele Gonzalez, a true miracle baby.
Patsy Serra's service will be held Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Rivercrest Chapel in Bixby, Oklahoma with a burial to follow at Bixby Cemetery.
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