Patricia Ann Cephas

On Thursday, September 17, 2026, the Lord whispered “sweet peace” to our loved one, Patricia Ann Cephas, and she was called home to be with the Lord. She departed this life at University of Maryland Shore Medical Center in Easton, MD. She was at peace and surrounded by love. She was 64 years old.

Patricia Ann Cephas, affectionately known as “Poochie,” was born in Easton, Maryland, on March 6, 1962, to the late Othor and Estella (George) Nichols. She was educated in the Caroline County Public School System and graduated from Colonel Richardson High School. She later attended Delaware Technical Community College, where she studied social work and earned her degree.

Patricia was formerly united in marriage, and from that union came four children: Samuel Jr., Tashena, Brian, and Tye’Mesha. Her greatest joy was her family. She devoted her life to loving, nurturing, encouraging, and creating lasting memories with the people she held dear.

Throughout her career, Patricia worked in a variety of roles and settings, all centered around serving and supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her compassion for others extended far beyond her professional life. She had a generous heart and found joy in making others feel cared for, welcomed, and loved.

Patricia enjoyed many hobbies and had a special gift for creativity. She had a green thumb and loved caring for her plants. She also enjoyed crocheting, singing, cooking, fishing, crafting, and traveling. She found beauty and happiness in the simple things in life. Whether she was tending to her plants, preparing a delicious meal, sharing a song, creating something with her hands, or simply spending time with family, Patricia always left her special touch wherever she went.

Her faith was an important part of her life. Patricia attended Word of Life International Family Ministries in Federalsburg, Maryland, where she served on the Hospitality Committee and occasionally the Praise Team. She also shared her knowledge and talents by teaching homesteading (canning) classes at the church. Through her service, she blessed many and became a cherished part of her church family.

Patricia leaves to cherish her beautiful memory her children, Samuel Cephas Jr. (Adriane) of Crofton, Maryland; Brian Cephas and Tye’Mesha Cephas of Federalsburg, Maryland. Her grandchildren: Deshawnea, Nevaeh, Trinity, Destiny, Shamijah, Shekinah, Amari, Aiden, Noah, and James; and her great-grandchildren: Ky’Aire, Zalayah, and Psalm.

Siblings: Juan, Mark, Donald, Darlene, Charles, Pauline, Violet, Othor Jr., Perry, Glenda, Elmarie, Maurice; bonus daughter Lashelle; a host of family- uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and church family, all of whom she loved.

Patricia was preceded in death by her parents, Othor and Estella Nichols; her beloved daughter Tashena Cephas; brother Alonzo Lawson; sisters Johnetta Lawson-Green, Shirley Chambers, Josephine Walters, and Geraldine Smith.

Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we find comfort knowing that Patricia lived a rich and meaningful life. She loved deeply, gave generously, served faithfully, and touched many lives. Her laughter, her songs, her kindness, her creativity, her faith, and the love she poured into her family will never be forgotten. Her earthly journey has ended, but her legacy of faith, family, and love will live on through all who knew her.

As we say goodbye, we hold tightly to the promise of God:

“To be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” — 2 Corinthians 5:8

– Lovingly submitted, the family.