Patricia "Trish" Wright Hotaling was surrounded by love when she passed away Friday, December 9, 2016. She is survived by her loving husband of 20 years, John; her children, Jack and Carey; a large and close-knit extended family; and many friends.
Trish was born December 27, 1965, to George (July 1, 2014) and Mary (October 1, 2011) Wright. Along with her siblings, Mike, Kathy, Karen and Jim, she grew up in Phoenix, Ariz. before moving to Orlando, Fla. in 1979. Trish graduated from Bishop Moore High School, the University of South Florida (BS) and the University of Central Florida (MS).
Having spent her entire career in teaching, Trish touched the lives of countless students and colleagues at Partin Elementary, Deerwood Elementary and Cypress Creek High School. She had a zeal for education and a passion for her students' success that made her "the best teacher around."
Family was Trish's number-one priority. Always. She loved unconditionally and unselfishly with an infectious smile and an invigorating spirit. Fiercely loyal to and staunchly protective of "her people," Trish exuded a love that was palpable.
In the wake of such loss, each of us has a choice: To be overcome with despair and heartache, or to honor Trish's life by choosing happiness. While it's uncertain exactly what the future holds, of this we can be sure: Trish wants us to live well, love much and laugh often. Her legacy is in each of us. We are privileged to have loved her and be loved by her.
A memorial service for Trish will be held at Good Shepherd Catholic Church (5900 Oleander Ave., Orlando, FL 32807) on Thursday, December 22, 2016, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to Moffitt Cancer Center (www.moffitt.org/give-back/donate) or St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital (www.stjude.org).
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