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Obituary for WOODALL


Published in the Albuquerque Journal on Friday August 14, 2009

Patricia Burris-Woodall, Ph. D., passed away on Sunday, August 9, 2009 after a prolonged illness. Patricia is survived by her husband of 32 years, Gill Woodall, her daughter Caitlin Mee-Hyun, her son Eli, and her beloved border collie Lass, of Albuquerque, New Mexico. She is also survived by her parents, William T. and Marian L. Burris, of Golden, Colorado. All who knew Patricia saw her bravery, selflessness, and strength in the face of years of medical adversity. Bravery was only a small part of this special person though. Her family and friends also saw her great sensitivity and empathy, her sharp mind and wit, and the deep love she had for her family. She loved and respected all animals and the beautiful planet we live on. She relished good food, great music, and long thoughtful conversation with her family and friends close around her. She liked pie, especially pumpkin and her mom's apple pie. She enjoyed good arguments with her friends and family where give and take was the process, and critical analysis was the theme. Patricia was also a committed professional who served The University of New Mexico as a skilled researcher for many years. Patricia valued social justice, fairness and the importance of standing up for what is right. She believed all people deserved to be treated with dignity and respect. A deeply spiritual person, her journey was always individual and personal, and her path led her home to rest, peace and freedom. Though she never intended to set an example for others, she became one simply through living and coping with her difficulties with grace and strength. Her family, friends and loved ones will miss her, but our lives will continue to be enriched by her. We are grateful she persisted and stayed with us as long as possible, but are also glad she is finally at rest. A memorial service will be held Monday, August 17, 2009, 3:00 p.m., at The University of New Mexico Alumni Memorial Chapel. The closest major street intersections to the chapel are University Blvd NE and Las Lomas Rd NE, or University Blvd NE and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd NE. Donations may be made in Patricia's name, in lieu of flowers, to the RigDzin Dharma Foundation, 322 Washington SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108, 505-401-7340, www.rigdzin.com. Please visit our online guestbook for Patricia at www.RememberTheirStory.com. French 1111 University Blvd. NE. (505) 843-6333