Patricia Louise Arbutine, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and pioneering businesswoman, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2025, at the age of 90.

Born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and raised in Blairsville, Pat was a strong and resilient spirit from a young age, being a survivor of rheumatic fever in her adolescence. She went on to train at Bell Telephone, where her one-week salary outpaced what her future husband earned in a month. She married the love of her life, Miller “Art” Arbutine, in 1963—considered late by the standards of the time—and together they raised three sons, Greg, Chris, and Jay, born just 22 months apart.

A proud military wife, Pat followed Art across the globe during his service with the U.S. Air Force. They eventually settled in Belleair Bluffs, Florida. In 1973 they co-founded Belleair Coins and later, in 1979, The Silver Queen—a nationally recognized silver matching company. As a sharp and astute businesswoman, Pat played a vital role in growing both ventures while always putting her family first.

Pat was ahead of her time in more ways than one. In her 60s, she became a self-taught “webmistress,” using the screen name “Dragon Lady” to build websites in the early days of the internet. A proud member of Emily’s List and a staunch Democrat, she supported progressive causes and championed younger generations of women in leadership.

She made history as the first female president of the Bluffs Business & Professional Association and was a longtime member of Soroptimist International - she remained committed throughout her life to uplifting and empowering women and young girls. Though Pat presented herself as strict and stern, she was deeply generous - supporting her family and numerous charities with boundless devotion.

Thanksgiving was her holiday, a time when the family gathered under her watchful and loving eye. She was known for her love of fast, red cars, her fierce independence, and her deep compassion. A devoted animal lover, Pat always had a special affection for Doberman Pinschers, who were a part of her life for many years.

A devout Catholic for much of her life, Pat’s faith evolved with her experiences—especially after her eldest son Greg came out, a moment that deepened her commitment to love, inclusion, and acceptance.

Pat leaves behind her devoted husband of 62 years, Miller “Art” Arbutine; her sons Greg Arbutine (son-in-law Alan Johnson and grandson Derrick Johnson), Chris Arbutine (grandson Chris Jr.), and Jay Arbutine (daughter-in-law Debbie Arbutine and grandchildren Andy [married to Alysa and their three children], Tim, Cassie, and Michael).

She was a trailblazer, a matriarch, and a fierce protector of those she loved. Her legacy will live on in the family she nurtured, the businesses she helped build, and the values she championed.

A private ceremony for the family will take place on May 17th, to honor Patricia Louise Arbutine. In addition, a public Celebration of Life will be held at The Silver Queen, where friends and loved ones are welcome to gather, share memories, and pay their respects.

Date: Monday, May 19 Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Location: The Silver Queen, 1350 W Bay Dr, Largo, FL 33770

We invite you to join us as we celebrate Patricia’s life and the lasting impact, she had on all who knew her.   

Donations and Pledges of support are encouraged  to  Empath/Suncoast Hospice  at  www.SuncoastHospiceFoundation.org