Patricia Ann Watkins
Patricia Ann Watkins, known affectionately as Patty Ann, Pat, and Grandma Pat, was born to Mildred and Ward Harris on June 8th, 1936, in Joplin, Missouri. She was the middle child with two brothers, Larry and Jack. Pat’s journey took her to Wichita, Kansas, where she attended high school, Emporia State Teacher College, and Wichita University.
At 17, Pat worked at the Pawnee drive-in. There, she crossed paths with Glen Watkins, and their love story began from that fateful encounter. Pat and Glen were married on St. Patrick’s Day in 1956; their union is a testament to enduring love and commitment. Together, they started their family, welcoming two children, Sue Kay and Ralph Ward. In 1967, they found their forever home, where Pat’s passion for gardening and dedication to creating a warm, inviting space for her loved ones shone.
Pat’s creativity knew no bounds, and she was a talented seamstress and devoted crafter. She cherished the time spent with her friends in craft groups, exploring craft fairs, enjoying bridge games, and participating in bible study sessions.
Throughout her life, Pat wore many hats in her professional career, working at 1st National Bank in Tonkawa, owning an insurance agency, and managing a travel business at Brining Insurance. Her tireless work ethic was legendary; her family often marveled at her boundless energy. In her rare moments of respite, she would engage in her other passions, including baking, quilting, fundraising, and assisting with the children’s program at the city library. Her dedication extended beyond her professional life, as she devoted many years as a Sunday school teacher and secretary at the Methodist Church, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those she guided and inspired.
In her youth, Pat displayed her musical talents by playing the violin, and her granddaughters fondly reminisced about her love for the symphony. She established cherished traditions, such as taking them to see the Nutcracker every Christmas. Pat’s adventurous spirit led her on journeys across Europe, Alaska, and even sailing to the Bahamas for a family wedding. She was known for her intelligence, strength, and unwavering zest for life.
Patricia Ann Watkins is deeply missed by her loving husband, Glen, daughter, Sue, brother, Larry, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and dear friends. Her memory lives on as proof to a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and a boundless spirit that touched the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Pat gained her angel wings on October 2nd, 2023. Her service will be held at Tonkawa First United Methodist Church on Saturday, October 7th, 2023 at 11 a.m..