Giving Back in Appreciation for a Helping Hand in Challenging Times
Patricia (Patti) Dunleavy Maher
Patricia (Patti) Dunleavy Maher wanted the best for her children, James (ND ’86) and Jennifer (Lauralton Hall ‘88). Thus, she decided to enroll them at ND and Lauralton Hall even though, as a restaurant worker, her decision would require sacrifices to make ends meet. Like many students at our schools, Jamie and Jennifer received financial aid grants from ND and LH. Patti was grateful for the education Jamie and Jennifer received and for the support that made it possible. She never forgot.
In 1992, with both children out of college, Patti and her brother Bill picked up stakes and moved from West Haven to South Carolina to fulfill their father’s dream of owning a small Irish pub. The luck of the Irish was with them as Dunleavy’s Pub on Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina, became a successful family-owned restaurant known for its hospitality and service.
Patti passed away on April 20, 2018. Although she left West Haven more than 25 years prior and became a successful restauranteur, she never forgot the support she received from her children’s alma maters during some challenging times. In June 2018, Notre Dame was notified that the school’s General Scholarship Fund was the beneficiary of a $10,000 bequest from the estate of Patricia Dunleavy Maher. Patti’s legacy gift will assure that families like hers will continue to find the support they need at Notre Dame.
If you happen to be on Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina, please stop by Dunleavy’s Pub and raise a pint to a great lady.
