Patrick Joseph Caraher

Patrick J. Caraher, also known as Dr. Pat of Orlando, Florida, died on July 7, 2025, at the age of 77. Born August 19, 1948, in Highland Park, Michigan, he was raised with siblings James (Jim), Carol Gaddy, and Kathy Porter. He is survived by his husband and life partner of 52 years, Wilfred (Wilf) Souchereau and his nieces and nephews: Todd (Gail) Caraher, Lori (Danny) Weese, Sean (Stephanie) Caraher, Dean (Kim) Porter, Shannon (Alex) Teddy, Bridget Forbes, Cindy Gadde, James Caraher Jr., Jennifer (Adam) Roe, Sheila (Aaron) Haddad, Anna (Adam) Willis, and Joseph Gadde.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edgerton Caraher and Jeanne (MacDonald) Caraher and siblings James (Jim), Carol Gaddy, and Kathy Porter

Patrick was a Navy veteran. He graduated from Marygrove College with a BA and Wayne State University with a Doctor of Education degree in May 1990.

His entire working career was in education, including roles as a kindergarten teacher, Head Start Director, and college professor. He lived by the motto: "A hundred years from now, it won't matter what my bank account was, the house I lived in, or the car I drove, but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a CHILD."

He was actively involved in human rights and equality organizations beginning in the early seventies. Patrick, a dedicated family historian, took immense pleasure in researching his family tree and preserving ancestral stories. He valued history's role in uniting people and organized memorable reunions that celebrated tradition. Patrick’s legacy endures through the cherished memories of his family; his passion was ancestry and finding his family roots.

Wilfred and family thank the Westminster Towers Orlando rehab team for their care during Patrick’s final days, especially the Physical Therapy department team for their consistent support. Patrick’s laughter and smiles will be remembered.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life at Westminster Towers Orlando, 70 W. Lucerne Circle, Orlando, FL. 32801 on Tuesday, August 26, 2025. The Celebration with the family and friends will begin at 2:00 pm in the Garden Room of Westminster Towers.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Westminster Communities Foundation’s WTO Scholarship Fund in memory of Patrick and his lifelong passion for education.

Checks should be made to Westminster Communities Foundation with “WTO Scholarship” or “Patrick” written in the memo and mailed to Westminster Communities Foundation, 70 W Lucerne Cir, Orlando, FL 32801. Or donate online at: https://westminstercommunitiesfl.org/foundation/foundation-online-donation/.

PATRICK, May the road rise to meet you. May the wind always be at your back, May the sunshine warm upon your face - And rain fall softly upon your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of his hand.