Patricia Cole ('99 Journalism)
Patricia Cole, a veteran copy editor whose sharp eye, quick wit and kind heart made her a cherished colleague at NPR and other news outlets, died on Friday, Feb. 24, at age 46.
Her death set off a cascade of mourning and remembrance.
"Patricia loved editing, and she really loved politics," said Dana Farrington, deputy editor at the Washington Desk. "She saved me by catching mistakes no one else would, more than I can count. I'm grateful for her collaboration, her enthusiasm and her commitment to journalism, even when it was very hard."
Similar notes — from correspondents, editors and hosts — came from all corners of NPR. Patricia saved us, they said, over and over: from our own mistakes, from confusing our audience and from the chaos of hectic news cycles.
The messages came after Patricia's brother shared the news of her death.
"There is no easy way to share news like this," Michael Cole wrote on his sister's Facebook page. "Unfortunately, Patricia lost her long battle with depression and passed away on Friday night at Holy Cross Hospital in Maryland. We all hope and pray she is at peace."