Pamela Elaine Regan Hyde, 78, of Oak Park, died on July 18, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on Sept. 28, 1947, in Brooklawn, New Jersey, to the late William Rayfield Regan and Vivian West Warren, her gift was caring for others, which she embraced with quiet strength, steadfast optimism, grace, and a sense of humor that brought light even during life’s most difficult moments.
While pursuing an education degree at Gwynedd Mercy University, she met Art, the love of her life, and they married in 1968. After beginning her teaching career in Philadelphia and raising their three children in Oak Park, she returned to education. She taught third grade at Willard Elementary in River Forest before earning a master’s degree and retiring as principal of Lincoln Elementary in River Forest. Through her compassion, wisdom, and commitment to children, she touched the lives of students, families, teachers, and colleagues.
She was a devoted wife and mother, cheerful neighbor, empathetic friend, and an avid dog lover. She dedicated much of her adult life to caring for her son, David, whose remarkable 48 years with Duchenne muscular dystrophy were made possible by her care. Family, faith, and service were the foundation of her life.
Pam is survived by her son, Adam Stephen Hyde (Ruth); her daughter, Alicia Laura Hyde; her grandsons, Charles David Hyde and Vance Barron Hyde; her sister, Donna Cogan; her beloved dog, Cocoa; and many friends and neighbors. She was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur Hyde; her son, David Michael Hyde; and her parents.
Visitation will be held on Aug. 6 from 4 to 8 p.m. Check for details at https://www.online-tribute.com/PamHyde.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Aug. 7 at 10 a.m. at St. Giles Parish in Oak Park.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, https://mda.donordrive.com/campaigns/In-Honor-of-David-and-Pam-Hyde, or the Parkinson’s Foundation at https://secure.parkinson.org/site/TR/Tributes/General.