Patrick Edward Clements

Obituary

Patrick Edward Clements

September 28, 1963 – May 16, 2026

Patrick Edward Clements lived a life defined by curiosity, courage, and an abiding love for the world around him. Born on September 28, 1963, in Fairfax County, Virginia, he spent most of his adult life in Tampa, Florida, a city he made his own. He passed from this life, leaving behind a legacy that touched the natural world, the airwaves, the written word, and the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A proud alumnus of the University of Virginia, Patrick carried his Cavalier spirit with him throughout his life, maintaining cherished ties with his alma mater and classmates long after graduation. He was imbued with a love of history and genealogy. He carried the same intellectual curiosity and energy as a writer and journalist —for Patrick, an avocation that he approached as a profession.

From early in his adult life, Patrick was a committed voice in the gay rights movement in Tampa, standing alongside his community at a time when doing so took real courage. That activism never faded — he remained politically engaged and civically minded throughout his life, guided always by a deep sense of justice and a conviction that a better world was possible.

In the early 1990s, Patrick made history in the Tampa Bay area by creating Out in the Open, the region’s first gay radio news magazine, which aired on WMNF. It was a bold and pioneering act — of both conviction and compassion — and it opened doors and changed lives. That program stands as a testament to Patrick’s belief that every voice deserves to be heard.

Patrick loved the outdoors. He had a particular love for birds, finding joy and wonder in the natural world with a poet’s attentiveness. At home, his young cat, Lucky, was his devoted companion.

Family was the great anchor of Patrick’s life. He was a devoted and inspiring presence to his niece and nephews, none more so than his nephew Tori, who counted Patrick among his greatest inspirations. Patrick also delighted in his grandnephew, Paul, with the joy that only the very young can bring. He was the kind of family member who didn’t just show up — he showed you who you could be.

Patrick also found deep joy in the company of his dining group, book discussion group and his beloved recipe club — gatherings that blended his love of food, conversation, and community into something truly special.

Patrick was preceded in death by his beloved parents, William and Mary Ellen Clements, and by his brother, Barry, and his sister, Laura. Though he carries much of his family with him now, he leaves behind those who loved him dearly and will hold his memory close for the rest of their days.

Patrick Edward Clements was a trailblazer, a nature lover, a storyteller, and a gentle force for good. He leaves behind a world made richer for his having been in it, and a family — by blood and by bond — who will carry his light forward.

“Celebrate life. Honor the journey. Remember the love.”