Pat graduated from Pacific Grove High School in 1956 and later served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Princeton (CV-37) as a machinist and metal worker. During his senior year of high school, he met Laura Culp, who was then a freshman. Their courtship continued through Pat’s Navy service, with letters keeping them connected while they were apart. They married on October 23, 1960, and shared nearly 66 years together, raising four children in Silicon Valley before eventually retiring to Lehi, Utah and Garden City, Utah, a place Pat had loved since childhood. Pat passed away just 25 days after Laura, on what would have been their 66th wedding anniversary, bringing a tender sense of completion to their life together.
Pat was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He loved his family and especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He was delighted that his son and all seven of his grandsons earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Pat and Laura also loved traveling together, visiting places around the world and many of the nation’s National Parks, making dear friends and sharing adventures along the way.
Faith and service were central to Pat’s life. After returning to activity in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1961, he served in numerous Church callings. Later, he and Laura served a mission at the Conference Center on Temple Square, welcoming visitors from around the world and giving tours. After Laura could no longer serve, Pat continued for a couple of years on his own, traveling by FrontRunner train to Salt Lake City, and was extremely proud of his FrontRunner Fast Pass. He also became a devoted listener to Music and the Spoken Word, and many of its messages inspired the thoughts he shared with Scouts.
Scouting was one of Pat’s greatest lifelong passions. Registered as a Cub Scout at age nine, he went on to earn the rank of Eagle Scout in 1955 and then devoted more than 77 years to the program. He served as a Scoutmaster, worked at Philmont Scout Ranch, helped lead international Scout trips to Scotland, and spent more than 20 years volunteering at Camp Hunt in Garden City, Utah, including serving as camp chaplain. In February 1982 Pat was honored to receive his Silver Beaver award from the Santa Clara Council. In 2020, the area at the south end of Camp Hunt was named “Reilley Field” in recognition of his service. In May 2026, he received not only the Council Distinguished Alumnus Award but also a Lifetime of Service Award from the Crossroads of the West Council, an award that was presented to him by one of his grandsons. Pat was the third person to receive this new award and recognition from the council.
Pat had a creative side and a distinctive sense of style. He loved a good suit from Mr. Mac, suspenders were non-negotiable. He had an ever-growing collection of ties and collected hats of nearly every kind—from Cowboy to dress to mountain man to Fedora and golf hats. In retirement, he began carving walking sticks, each with his own recognizable style. Those who received them came to treasure these thoughtful gifts.
Pat was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Laura; his parents, Merrill and Dorothy Passey; his birth father, Thomas Reilley, and Thomas’ wife.
He is survived by his four children and their spouses: Kathleen and Eric, Dan and Debbie, Karen and Mike, and Diana and Billy; 14 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and his brother, Gary (Pam) Passey.
Pat will be remembered for his faith, humor, love of adventure, dedication to Scouting, and willingness to give his time and talents to others. Above all, he leaves a legacy of service, friendship, and love for his family. His family is grateful for the life he lived and finds comfort in the thought of his reunion with his High School sweetheart, Laura.
