Patsy J. Lecates, 73, of Laurel, died Sunday, December 21, 2014 at her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born September 6, 1941 in Milford, a daughter of the late Robert Earl Stewart and Mildred Evelyn (Passwaters) Stewart. Patsy worked as quality control inspector for Gant Shirt Factory for over 20 years and worked 9 years for Dresser Wayne. Her most important job was that of a homemaker and raising her family and she took that job very seriously. As a strong family leader, her life revolved around family and she was always there to help them any way she could. She enjoyed reading, traveling, singing and music and was a wonderful dancer. She is survived by six children, Karen Martin (Robert) of New Cumberland, PA, Wayne Cater (Rose) of Laurel, Ricky Lecates (Susan) of Salisbury, Rocky Lecates of Laurel, Randy Lecates of Laurel and Wendy Lecates of New Port Richey, Florida; 11 grandchildren, Robert Martin, Tiffany Rentz, Patricia Wooten, Ryan, Shannon and Christopher Lecates, Rocky Lecates, Jr., Elizabeth Ashley Jennings, Raven Owens, Meagan Campbell and Dillon Wien; 17 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Roscoe Lecates, who passed in 2002; a great grandchild; 4 brothers; and a sister. A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 26, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. at Short Funeral Home in Delmar, where family and friends may call from 1:00 to 2:00. The Reverend Danny Tice will officiate. Interment will follow in Blades Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963. Arrangements are being handled by Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.