With profound sadness and heavy hearts, family, friends, and members of the Watertown and Wellesley Island communities are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Patricia J. “Patti” Curtis, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, partner, and friend who passed away following a tragic pedestrian accident. She was 65 years old.
Patti’s unexpected passing has left a deep void among everyone who knew and loved her. She was remembered as a compassionate, strong, and free-spirited woman whose kindness, wisdom, and generosity touched countless lives throughout her community.
According to authorities, Patricia Curtis was tragically struck by a vehicle while crossing Coffeen Street in Watertown on the evening of July 16, 2026. Officials allege that the driver involved, Skye Elise Everson, was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the collision. Patti later passed away on Friday, July 17, 2026, at Upstate Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on February 6, 1961, in Watertown, New York, Patti was the daughter of the late Robert Newell and Jeanne Alice Curtis. She graduated from Watertown High School and continued her education at Jefferson Community College, where she earned an associate degree in Human Services.
Throughout her life, Patti dedicated herself to serving others. She proudly served in the United States Army from 1980 to 1986 and spent many years contributing to her community through various roles. She worked as a Candy Striper at Mercy Hospital, managed the YMCA School-Age Child Care program, and worked as a bartender and hostess at Bonnie Castle Downs. For more than two decades, she worked alongside former partner David Knapp at DAK Design & Constructing, Inc. She later became the owner and operator of PJC Cleaning, serving clients throughout the Thousand Islands region.
Those who knew Patti described her as someone who brought warmth, understanding, and genuine care into every interaction. She had a unique ability to make people feel welcomed and valued. Her compassion extended not only to family and friends but also to animals, nature, and the places she loved most.
Patti had a deep connection to the water and cherished her time along the St. Lawrence River and Murray Island, affectionately known as “The River” and “The Island.” These places reflected her personality—strong, steady, independent, and deeply connected to the world around her.
Above all, Patti was a devoted grandmother who treasured her family. Her children, grandchildren, siblings, and chosen community were the center of her world, and she loved them wholeheartedly.
She is survived by her children, Elise Robinson and Shane Robinson; former partner of 25 years, Dave Knapp; siblings Ron Curtis, Lori Parks, Joyce Hale, John Curtis, and Jennifer Curtis Johnson; and grandchildren Eugene Cappuccetti IV, Johnnie Cappuccetti, Ava Curtis, and Harlan Robinson.
Patti Curtis’ legacy will live on through the many lives she touched, the community she helped strengthen, and the memories she created with those she loved. Her humor, strength, kindness, and unwavering spirit will never be forgotten.
Rest in eternal peace, Patricia “Patti” Curtis. You were deeply loved, greatly admired, and will forever remain in the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to have known you.