M. Patricia "Pat" Capin

M. Patricia “Pat” Capin, 73, of Belton passed away on August 24, 2023 in Temple, Texas. She was born in Dublin, Ireland on June 14, 1950 and came to America with her identical twin sister Mike.

Graveside services with full Military Honors will be 10 Am Friday, October 27, 2023 at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen. Memorial service will be 12 PM Friday, October 27, 2023 at the First United Methodist Church in Belton, Texas with Pastor Jeff Miller officiating. The family will hold a reception at the church following the memorial service.

 Pat graduated from Cold Spring Harbor High School, LI, NY in 1968. Matriculated from Arizona State University in 1972, followed by graduate work towards a master’s in psychology.

She joined the Women’s Army Corps in 1974. When the WAC was disbanded in 1978, Pat was one of a handful of women who were on the leading edge of integration into the Regular Army. She was appointed to the Transportation Corps as an officer where she made an outstanding contribution to Army logistics. Her service to her country included working as a transportation officer in Germany, Turkey, the Pentagon, Fort Cavazos (Hood) and Fort Irwin. She held command at both the company level (Fort Irwin) and battalion command level (49th Transportation Battalion, Fort Cavazos). She was a NATO joint service officer and was involved in peacekeeping operations in Kosovo. She was a graduate of both the Armed Forces Staff College and the United States Army War College. In her last duty assignment, she served as the Chief Logistics/Deputy Director of the U.S. Army Peace Keeping Institute, in DC. She was recognized for her outstanding service with many awards and decorations, culminating with her selection by the Transportation Corps as a Distinguished Member of the Regiment. Her highest commendation was the Legion of Merit. It’s been said by many she “bled green” because her love of service was so great

She retired from the Army in 2001. She and Ted made their home in Belton Texas. They remained active in their community and United Methodist Church. Pat logged 75,000 miles working to move rescued Golden Retrievers throughout Texas. Pat and Ted loved traveling and took many cruises and trips in their RV. Pat also mentored young women Army officers in an on-line private group. Pat was a dedicated and generous disciple of Jesus Christ who sought to genuinely live the values that Jesus taught. As an active member and leader in the United Methodist Church, Pat served in many capacities, including Chair of the Board of Trustees and Chair of Nurture Ministries. She was a fierce advocate for God’s justice, mercy, and grace, both  within and outside the church, which drove her passionate activism regarding the rights of women, the LGBTQIA+ community, and anyone who was oppressed or marginalized.

Left to cherish her memory: Mike (Cindy), Tim (Terri), John (Kerrie). Also, nephews JR and Reno. Sisters-in Law Ruth Ann (Walt), Jan & Pam. Devoted neighbors Susan & Fulton Jones. Aunts/Uncles Joe & Joann and Jim & Rose Ann Capin. Irish Brothers and Sister: Gerry (Toni), Maurice (Geraldine), PJ and Mary (Pat). Also, many cousins, fellow veterans, and friends. Her life was further enriched by meeting some of the members of the Dunleavy and Petty families during her visit to Doolin last October.

Predeceased by her adoptive parents Guy E. and Pauline D. Capin. Her birth mother Mary Petty Dunleavy of Doolin, Co Claire, Ireland, and her beloved husband Edward W. (Ted) MacLean, also predeceased her. In tragic and heartbreaking circumstances, she was predeceased by two nieces: Jacque and Cheyenne, and two nephews, Mitch and Michael.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be directed to:
· Amy’s House (Medical lodging facility for transplant patients, donors and
family) www.AmysHouse-Temple.org
· Smile Train (international cleft palate repair) www.donate.smiletrain.org;
· Gold Ribbon Rescue www.grr-tx.com/donate;
· Charity of your choice.

Crotty Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Belton is in charge of arrangements.