Patsy O'Kelly

Patsy Ruth Cox O’Kelly was born March 5, 1926 in Merkel, Texas to Ruth Pike Cox and Denzel Cox. Patsy passed away in the morning hours of Monday April 19, 2021. She is preceded in death by her parents, her Husband James Othell O’Kelly, her daughter Melinda O’Kelly Simpson, her sister Joyce Ferguson, and her brothers Dave Cox and Nowlin “Corky” Cox. Patsy is survived by her son, Owen O’Kelly(wife Kay), Son In Law Ted Simpson, and 5 grandchildren: Melissa Simpson Jones, Chris Simpson(wife Cindy), Scott O’Kelly(wife Jana), Kelley O’Kelly, and Heather O’Kelly. Patsy has 15 great-grandchildren and 11 great great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind dear best friends and relatives Lettie Hamner, Sheila Hamner Dozier, and Lila Cox. Patsy married Othell O’Kelly on November 30, 1945 in Merkel Texas. She has been a member of the Trent United Methodist Church since 1945, serving in many capacities throughout her years, including being the song leader at TUMC for many years. Patsy had many hobbies including sewing, crafts, socializing, playing chicken foot, and shopping. Patsy shopped most days and was the Queen of Bargains. She loved nothing more than driving to “town” to shop. She was a colorful and snazzy dresser, always accessorized with color coordinated clothing and bright, trendy jewelry. Patsy loved supporting her grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s activities. Patsy was an enthusiastic hostess for many large family gatherings, most notably her Christmas Eve parties for family and friends for many years from the 1970s through 2016. Christmas Eve at Patsy and Othell’s is the source of many beloved family memories and hilarious stories. Her Buttermilk Pie and Banana Pudding are the stuff of legends. Patsy’s gentle spirit, kind sentiments, and innocent sense of humor will be sorely missed by friends, family, and acquaintances. Patsy’s funeral service will be held at the Trent United Methodist Church on Saturday Morning, April 24, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. Viewing and visitation will be Friday night, April 23, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Starbuck’s Funeral Home in Merkel, Texas. The family requests donations to Trent United Methodist Church or Hendricks Hospice Care in lieu of flowers.

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