In February 2021, the world of music lost not just a beloved artist’s partner, but a beautiful soul—Patricia Healey, the wife of Engelbert Humperdinck. Married for over 56 years, their love stood the test of time, enduring through fame, distance, illness, and ultimately, goodbye. But what truly sets this farewell apart is not just the love—it’s the spiritual grace that enveloped Patricia’s final moments.
In the final days of her life, Patricia had been battling Alzheimer’s for more than a decade. To make matters worse, she contracted COVID-19 in the weeks leading to her death. But instead of despair, the Humperdinck family found solace in their faith.
Every night at 8 pm, Engelbert and his family would gather to pray for her recovery. On February 4, 2021—just hours before her passing—those prayers took a deeply sacred turn. Their nephew, Father Paul, a Catholic priest, led the family in administering the last rites, a solemn sacrament of the Church that prepares the soul for its journey to the afterlife.
Though Father Paul was thousands of miles away, he joined via video call, his voice filled with calm reverence. Patricia, though physically weakened, was spiritually surrounded—by family, faith, and the loving presence of her husband, who sat holding her hand.
Engelbert described the moment in his own words:
“The last rites were given just before our usual 8 pm prayer, by our nephew, Father Paul. It was 4 am for him. We were so grateful to have him gently lead Popea through this last chapter, with a familiar voice and such love.”
Following the rite, the family performed another sacred ritual—anointing Patricia with Lourdes water, known for its spiritual healing power. In the soft glow of candlelight, Patricia slipped away “as if by God’s clockwork,” Engelbert said.
This was not a goodbye born of fear—it was a farewell rooted in peace, ritual, and love. In her final hour, Patricia was not alone. She was held, prayed for, and blessed—carried forward not only by the hands of her husband, but by the grace of faith.
For Engelbert, this deeply spiritual goodbye wasn’t the end. It was a beautiful bridge between a lifetime of love and the eternal promise of reunion.
🎧 Listen to the song Engelbert once sang — a reflection of everything he felt for his beloved wife:
▶️ The Way It Used to Be – Engelbert Humperdinck