An obituary of Mrs. Patricia Carmody, believed to have been the last shorthand court reporter in Michigan. She was a Gregg writer, the dates placing her in the Anniversary school.

Court worker wielded mighty pen

She was awarded the Golden Notes Award by the National Court Reporters Association in recognition of her many years of service in the profession.

“She was the consummate professional in any way you measure it,” said Shiawassee Circuit Court Judge Gerald Lostracco, who had worked alongside her since 1985. He said she could transcribe up to 220 words per minute.

“If there were a role model for a public servant who was dedicated to their work and believed in getting it right the first time, then Patt was the person to look to,” he added.

Mrs. Carmody began working for Shiawassee County Probate Court in November 1947. She continued to work with the courts both full-time and freelance until her death, taking time off only to raise her five children.

“She was just a tremendous reporter. And the nicest person,” said retired attorney George Geddis, who practiced in the court for decades and now lives in Dundee. “The only time she’d ever raise her voice was when two lawyers were talking at once and she’d say, ‘Excuse me, I can’t write with both hands.’ “