Patricia Bergeron, 69, of Martha’s Vineyard, passed away on Jan. 1, 2026, while on the water with her beloved partner, Roy Scheffer, scalloping as they welcomed the New Year doing what they loved most.
She was the strongest, most selfless person you could have known, with the biggest heart and an unforgettable smile. When you saw her face light up, you knew that everything was going to be OK.
Tricia devoted her life to caring for others. She worked at Martha’s Vineyard Hospital for more than 40 years, where she considered everyone who walked through the doors not just patients or coworkers, but family. Her compassion, generosity, and unwavering sense of duty made her a cornerstone of both the hospital and the Island community she loved so deeply.
Tricia was deeply proud of her Portuguese heritage, and carried that pride into every part of her life. She had a lifelong love for and devotion to the P.A. Club, where she found community, tradition, and a sense of belonging that meant the world to her. In recognition of her dedication and service, Tricia was named Portuguese Woman of the Year, following in her Aunt Cathy’s footsteps — an honor she cherished deeply.
Above all else, Tricia cherished her family. She was a devoted mother to Kristen Fitzpatrick and her husband Shaun, and Thomas Wilkins and his partner Meghan. She carried the love and memory of her son Eric Maclean, who predeceased her, in her heart every day. She found her greatest joy in her grandchildren, Benjamin Eric Maclean Peters, lovingly known as her “Benny,” and his partner Shelby. She was also a proud and loving grandmother to her granddaughter, Finley Patlin Wilkins. They were the lights of her life. Tricia is also survived by her brothers, Peter Bergeron and Patrick Bergeron, as well as her many beloved nephews, all of whom she loved deeply and supported wholeheartedly.
Later in life, Tricia found her soulmate in Roy, and experienced a happiness she so deeply deserved. Along with their love for the water — scalloping, oystering, and spending their days side by side — they shared a love of cribbage. As proud members of the Martha’s Vineyard Cribbage Club, Tricia and Roy often traveled off-Island to play in tournaments, enjoying both the game and the adventure together. Their bond was one of true partnership, laughter, and joy. Tricia and Roy passed away together, reflecting a love that was inseparable and enduring.
Tricia was the rock of her family and a steady presence on the Island — someone people leaned on, trusted, and felt safe with. She gave endlessly of herself, always putting others first, and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and unconditional love.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. This spring, Tricia’s ashes will be laid to rest alongside her beloved son, Eric, honoring the unbreakable bond they shared.
In lieu of flowers, the family has established a GoFundMe [bit.ly/GFM_BergeronFamily] to assist with expenses, help the family regain their footing, and most importantly, to preserve the family property that Tricia worked her entire life for — ensuring it remains a place of love, gathering, and memories for her children and grandchildren.
She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered for the way she made people feel — safe, cared for, and never alone.
