July 21, 1941 – November 14, 2025

“There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even after they have gone, the light remains.” – Unknown

Patricia Ruth (Miller Marthakis) McCauley, of Salt Lake City, Utah, passed away at home on November 14, 2025, with her daughter and son by her side. She was 84 years old.

Born in Idaho Falls, Pat was the daughter of Spencer Miller and Rinnie Estep Miller Fife, and stepdaughter of Alex Fife. The youngest of three children, she grew up alongside her brothers, Ron and Larry Miller. Throughout her life she carried with her warm memories of childhood visits with her grandmother and extended family throughout Utah and Idaho. Her family settled in Salt Lake City while she was young, and Pat later graduated from West High School before attending the University of Utah. To many who knew her in those early years, she will always be remembered as “Patsy Miller.”

Pat was best known—and loved—by many for her colorful style, unwaveringly positive disposition, enthusiastic affection, and boundless generosity of spirit. She never met a stranger and always remembered a name. With her endless compliments, bright smile, and genuine kindness, she made everyone she encountered feel seen, special, and loved. Ever the optimist, her favorite motto was: “Carpe Diem!” She loved reading, watching movies, socializing with friends of all ages, spending time in the sun, and above all, being with her children.

Pat’s first husband, Peter Marthakis, proposed to her atop the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco—a romantic story she cherished throughout her life. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Stephanie, before Peter’s passing from pancreatic cancer in 1973. Several years later, she remarried and relocated to Atlanta, Georgia where she had her son, Mark. Though that marriage later ended, Pat remained in Atlanta and devoted herself to raising her children, becoming a beloved “second mom” to many of their friends.

Her professional life was rich and varied. Pat began her career in local government as a secretary for the Utah Department of Highways, where she frequently appeared in local newspapers promoting new road projects. She later served as secretary to Governor Cal Rampton, Senator Allen Howell, and Congressman Wayne Owens in the 1970s, experiences that brought her the memorable opportunities to meet President Jimmy Carter and Robert Redford.

After moving to Atlanta, she co-founded a successful title company with her second husband. In later years, she worked in property management as a receptionist, well known for her warmth, humor, and ability to brighten anyone’s day.

In 2004, Pat returned to Salt Lake City to be closer to her daughter, leaving behind many cherished friends but quickly finding new purpose and community. She volunteered for Scott Matheson Jr.’s gubernatorial campaign and later worked for Stonebrook Real Estate, where she again made lifelong friends. Her final professional role was as a concierge at Sunrise Assisted Living, where she made sure that every visitor and resident was greeted with kindness and a smile.

In 2019, Pat was diagnosed with stage III ovarian cancer. True to form, she refused to let the diagnosis define her. Rarely did she say, “I have cancer”. Instead, she focused on living fully and joyfully. She received exceptional care from Huntsman Cancer Institute, and her unfailingly positive spirit carried her through her many treatments. Pat looked forward to her chemo sessions because of the friendships she formed with her doctors, nurses, and clinic staff—yet another circle of people touched by her light. Pat remained vibrant and full of love until her final day.

Patricia is survived by her daughter, Stephanie Marthakis; her son, Mark McCauley; her beloved cat, Biggie; her sister-in-law, Pamela Miller; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her stepfather, and her brothers.

Her family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate oncology team at Huntsman Cancer Institute, the hospice team at Huntsman at Home/CNS, and the many friends and family who offered support throughout her illness.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (ORCA) at orcahope.org.

Services will be held at City View Mortuary on Friday, December 5th: 1:00pm Viewing, 2:00pm Service, 3:00pm-5:00pm Celebration of Life. For those who plan to attend, the family suggests you honor Pat’s colorful style by wearing your favorite color! For those who cannot attend in person, please check back for updates on the option to attend virtually.