Patricia Cheyne Washburn

Patricia “Pat” Cheyne Washburn, of North Coventry Township, Chester County, PA, who loved family and friends, and was a compassionate psychologist whose dedication to mental and emotional counseling touched the lives of many, passed away on January 12, 2026, at the age 84.

Born in Plattsburgh, NY, she was the daughter of the late Gerald K. and Doris R. (née Rothermel) Cheyne. She received a B.A in Psychology from Hartwick College (1963) and a Masters in Psychology at Immaculata U. (1991). She then was a juvenile probation officer in Oneida County, Utica, NY (1963-1964), and an elementary school teacher at Franklin Academy in Malone, NY, Penn Valley School in Lower Merion, PA, and Great Valley Schools in Malvern, PA. She was the Regional Chair of Art Goes to School and a founding member of the PA Association of Play Therapy. During this time, she also was a passionate homemaker and provided loving guidance to her children.

Beyond her work in psychology and education, Pat had a deep appreciation for nature, particularly the wildlife that graced her home. She often found joy in observing foxes, wild turkeys and the various bird species that came to visit, with special fondness for the great blue herons, osprey and eagles. She loved travelling, and after her marriage, she honeymooned and lived in southern Spain for 1 ½ years, visited all 50 states, 50 national parks and several foreign countries. This connection to the natural world not only brought her personal comfort but also inspired a sense of tranquility in her daily life and stirred her to become a dedicated volunteer during her retirement. She served as a founding member of the Coventry Land Trust and the North Coventry Township Planning Commission (Chair) and the Environmental Advisory Council.

Pat was the beloved wife of Christopher H. Washburn for 60 years and the loving mother of Diane E. Driscoll (the late Patrick J.) and James S. Washburn (Mary Nelson). She was the caring and dedicated grandmother to her step-granddaughter, Erin Brown. She is also survived by her many friends and colleagues.

Relatives and friends are invited to honor Pat’s life Saturday, February 7, 2026 at a 10:00 AM Visitation with her family, followed by her Funeral Service from 11:00 AM-12:00 PM in the Chapel of Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, then a Luncheon at 12:00 PM at the Church. Interment private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Pat’s memory to Natural Lands, www.natlands.org.