Celebrating the life of
Patricia "Patti" Fobes
July 13, 1942 - May 30, 2025
Patricia “Patti” Fobes, 82, of Tybee Island, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 30, 2025, after a brief battle with cancer.
Patti was born in Charlotte, North Carolina, and was raised in Savannah, Georgia, where she graduated from Jenkins High School. After graduating, she pursued her dream job as a flight attendant with National Airlines. It was in the skies that she met Joe Fobes, a young Air Force officer in flight school, and the two married in 1969. Their life together took them around the world, including a time in Thailand before settling in Athens, Georgia, where they became proud owners of a Dunkin’ Donuts on Prince Avenue. They later purchased a beloved home on Tybee Island, where the family has lived for over 50 years.
Patti was a devoted wife and mother who raised four children on Tybee Island. She was deeply involved in her community, with a special connection to St. Michael’s School. Patti also worked as a successful realtor, specializing in properties on Tybee Island and Savannah. Her work ethic and warm personality made her a cherished figure in the area.
In addition to her loving husband of 56 years, Joe, Patti is survived by her children: sons Joel Fobes (Merritt) and David Fobes, and daughter Kelly Fobes Donnelly (Jason), all of Savannah. She also leaves behind her seven grandchildren: Parker, James, Edie, Joey, Christopher, and Brighid Fobes, and Kieran Donnelly.
Patti was preceded in death by her parents, Gabriel and Ruth St. Clair, her grandparents, William and Hattie “Nola” Spanola and her son, Donny Fobes.
Patti was known for her magnetic personality—if you met her once, you were hooked. She had an undeniable zest for life, a kind heart, and a wild spirit that left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She was the type of person who would give you the shirt off her back, and her love for others knew no bounds. Her favorite moments were spent on Tybee Island, whether it was relaxing on the porch or simply driving around the island she loved.
The family will hold a private memorial service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the charity of your choice.
Patti will be greatly missed, but her legacy of love, kindness, and adventure will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
I never knew her name was Patti - she probably told me a million times - to me she was Mrs. Fobes, Kelly's Mom. She was always happy. She will be missed.
- Beth Donnelly, Savannah, GA
So very sorry to learn of this; sending healing prayers at this most heartbreaking time.
- John Porter and Sharon Smith, Macon, Georgia
Our deepest sympathies and condolences to the Fobes family.
- Terri (Brown) and Mike Patillo, Tybee and Savannah , GA
I taught at St. Michael 's and certainly remember Patti's smile, laughter and positive personality. Sad to hear that this bright spot is gone, but I know her family has many wonderful memories.
- Melissa Wells, Savannah, GA
Please accept our condolence. Patti's struggle is over. She is now in the arms of the One who loves her most. We pray for strength and comfort for all.
- Charlie Kirk and Patti Neidlinger, Tybee Island, GA
Dear Family -So very sorry to hear that Patti has passed away. Patti was 14 years old when my sister and I were born. She and her parents raised us as we were neighbors. And every time we heard her car start up, we would run outside to ask her if we could go with her. She was like a big sister to us and taught us how to do the twist. Many, many wonderful memories of Patti, her parents, Joe and Joel. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
- Julie “Banks” Sublette, Canton, GA
Condolences. Her smile and her laughter would make you to be friends with her.
- Randy & janelle bragged. ( RABBIT ), Beech island, Sc
Thoughts and prayers for Joel, Merritt, and the Fobes family during this difficult time.
- Sabrina Smith, Savannah, Ga
Sorry for the loss of such a beautiful person. Patti always had a smile for everyone... Prayers for healing and love to all of the family.
- Mike Hosti, Tybee Island, GA
Mrs Patti was a good friend of my momswgen we were growing up... She will be truely missed
- Melissa Youmans Stephens , Tybee/Richmond Hill , Ga
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- A Private Service Will Be Held
