Patricia "Patty" Alto Lacks

Patricia “Patty” Alto Lacks, passed away on June 15, 2025, in Madison Heights, Virginia, surrounded by her loving family.

Patty was born on July 28, 1960, in Long Island, New York; the daughter of the late Richard Alan Alto and Nancy Lee Pearson Alto.

Patty dedicated 26 years of her career to Sweet Briar College in Amherst, Virginia, where she made a lasting impact. She later served as a mediator for the State of Virginia for over 20 years. In addition to her professional endeavors, she had a passion for antiques and started Lacks Creative Classics which became a cherished venture for Patty for 20 years.

Her family was the center of her world, and she treasured each moment spent with them. Patty is survived by her beloved husband of 29 years, Michael "Mike" Lacks. She was a proud mother to her sons, Nicholas Jennings and his wife, Carrie of Doswell, Virginia, and Brandon Jennings and his wife, Amanda Hesson of Amherst, Virginia. Patty was also a cherished grandmother to her grandchildren, Logan and Madison Jennings. She is also survived by her brother, Alan Alto and his wife, Nena of Virginia Beach, Virginia, her niece, Martha Lynn Rector, as well as her nephews, Chris and Alexander Alto.

A celebration of Patty's life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Madison Heights is assisting the family.