PATRICIA "PAT" left us unexpectedly on December 30, 2011. Pat was born October 1, 1931 in Denver, Colorado. In 1956, Pat married the love of her life, Thomas W. Rainey and began a world-wide life of adventure together. Travelling and living in exotic places such as the Philippines, and Iran, Pat proved herself to be a fearless woman of strength and determination. Following Tom to the Philippines, Pat took three "babies", the oldest being only two, across the country and then across the Pacific on her own. Pat was an amazing mother who dedicated herself to raising her kids and to being a loving wife. She and Tom settled in Albuquerque in 1972 after his retirement from the Air Force and made a new home for their family. Throughout her life Pat was involved in the lives of her children, her grandchildren and the many friends that she and Tom made over the years. Their network of friends spans the country and they have maintained that network for many years. Pat believed strongly in looking out for neighbors and friends within her community and participated actively in community service activities. She held strong political beliefs and loved to discuss the events of the day. Though her own opinions were strong and heartfelt, she always insisted that her children and grandchildren thought for themselves and developed their own beliefs and opinions. The pride of her life was her family. She was a devoted mother, a dedicated grandmother, and was excitedly looking forward to the birth of her second great grandchild. She delighted in the lives of her children and grandchildren and eagerly anticipated their visits and phone calls. She was a soccer mom before there were soccer moms. Little League, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, PTA, Vacation Bible School, church, school activities and athletics were important to her children and so they were important to her. Always encouraging and involved, she made costumes, baked cookies and cakes, helped sell candy and donuts, was an officer in the PTA and through extraordinary efforts, insured that her children were able to participate in any activity they desired. Pat is survived by her loving husband Tom; her son, Terry and his wife, Calleen; her son, Tim and his wife, Jovonna; and her daughter, Tammy. She had six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild with another on the way. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 7, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. at the French - University Chapel, 1111 University Blvd. NE. There will be a reception to follow at the Elks Lodge #461 located at 2430 Centre Avenue Southeast. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Pat's beloved charity the Albuquerque Humane Society. Please visit our online guest book for Patricia at: RememberTheirStory.com. FRENCH 1111 University NE 505-843-6333
|
