Patricia A. Mcgee

Patricia Ann McGee, née Corrie, affectionately known as Pat, passed away on August 22, 2024, in Bloomington, IL, at the age of 83. Born on January 23, 1941, in Arrowsmith, IL, Pat grew into a loving wife, daughter, sister, aunt, great aunt, great-great aunt, friend, and godmother. Her passion for education and mentorship defined her remarkable career as a teacher and coach.

Pat embarked on her teaching journey at Lincoln High School in Lincoln, IL, from 1963 to 1967, where she coached cheerleading and instituted a pom-pom squad. She then moved to Rich Central High School in Olympia Fields, IL, where she served from 1967 until her retirement in 1993. At Rich Central, she coached cheerleading and the highly competitive Sparkettes dance/pom squad. Pat played a crucial role as a founding officer of the Illinois Drill Team Association, serving as an officer and competition coordinator. Her leadership took the Sparkettes to an international competition in Japan in 1986, where they won first place in their division. Her outstanding contributions to the field were recognized with inductions into the Drill Team World Organization Hall of Fame in 1984 and the IDTA Hall of Fame in 1990.

Beyond her professional achievements, Pat was a lifelong friend to many of her former students, profoundly impacting their lives. Her love for dance and animals shone through her personal life, where she also enjoyed laying poolside in the sun, shopping on QVC & the Home Shopping Network, and showing horses. An avid sports fan, Pat was especially supportive of her nieces and nephews' sporting events.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents, Ervin and Dorothy Corrie; brothers Ronnie and Terry Corrie; and her beloved husband, William McGee. She is survived by her brother Donnie (Shirley) Corrie, sister Rita (Jim) Kelly, and many adoring nieces and nephews.

Services to honor Pat's legacy will be held on August 27, 2024, at Tews-Ryan Funeral Home in Homewood, IL. Visitation will take place from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. Burial will occur at 2:00 p.m. in Chenoa, IL. Tews-Ryan Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Pat's life and contributions will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her.