Patricia Sue Hagenaars passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. Patty was born on May 31, 1953, in Muskegon, Michigan, to Walter and Anna (Voogd) White. Her family left Michagan when she was a young child, spending a short time in Virginia, before settling in Newark, Delaware. Patty graduated from John Dickinson High School, Class of 1971, and later earned a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Development from the University of Delaware, in 1975. Patty's career began in Delaware working with young children at Kindercare Learning Center. She first met the man who would become the love of her life, Robert Hagenaars, when her brother Tim advocated for a childhood vacation to 'Whippoorwill Lodges' in rural Downeast Maine. Patty and Bob were married at St. James Episcopal Church on May 13, 1978, in Wilmington, Delaware. The couple eventually settled in Maine and together they created a beautiful home in Princeton. Patty would become a beloved teacher at Princeton Elementary School for many years before devoting herself to raising their two children, Courtney and Tabitha.
Patty's life was a rich tapestry, woven with vibrant threads of love and dedication. She was a gardener, a reader, and a lover of nature. In summer she could be found with her family at her beloved cottage, often casting a fishing line or swimming in the cool waters of Pocomoonshine Lake. Patty truly found solace in the rhythmic beauty of sewing, needlework, and quilting. Her intricate hand stitching required countless hours of dedication. She poured so much love into the many custom pieces she created for her family. A member of the Ironworks Quilters and the Down East Quilters, her passion for the craft was as vivid as the patterns she created. Later in life, Patty was an avid yoga and Thai Chi enthusiast. Above all, Patty was a beacon of love for her family, and to her precious grandchildren, who were her greatest joy.
Patty is survived by her husband, Robert Hagenaars; her son Courtney Hagenaars, wife Tammy, and children Emma and Abigail of Manchester, ME; and her daughter Tabitha Sagner, husband Storm, and children Isaac and Jacob of Fayette, ME. She is also survived by her brother, Timothy White and wife Alison; sister-in-law Elaine White; and sister-in-law Antoinette Forsyth. Patty is survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Anna White, and her brother, Daniel White.
A celebration of Patty's life will be held with loved ones this summer, at a date to be determined. Arrangements are under the care of Mays Funeral Home & Cremation Services. Every person whose life was touched by Patty is invited to share their memories and upload photos to the memorial page at www.MaysFuneralHome.com.
In lieu of flowers, Patty's children ask that donations be made to the "Patty Hagenaars Memorial Fund", an account dedicated solely to providing much needed school supplies to the children of Princeton Elementary School. In this way, Patty's legacy of love, compassion, and learning can continue to inspire and comfort us all.
Please scan the QR code to donate.