Georgia M. (Pat) Church was born on February 13, 1926 to Gaylord and Frieda (VanHooser) Parks in Diggins, Missouri and died peacefully in her sleep on August 30, 2010 at the Neighborhoods at Quail Creek.
She was married 62 years to Phil Church (who predeceased her in 2006). That handsome soldier swept her off her feet and took her home to West Virginia for almost 30 years. Together
they had five children: Phyllis Scott of Orlando, Florida; Peggy (Steve) Stepp of Springfield; Rufus (deceased) and his wife Kay Church; Patrick Church (deceased); and Nancy Church (deceased).
Returning to Springfield in 1963,
she was his helpmate as he embarked on working in and building car dealerships.
Patsy was a dedicated homemaker and an original “wise woman” who was treasured by all who had the opportunity to come to know her. She loved to paint, work outdoors, sew, cook and bake cakes (writing her own cookbook), and work with her hands.
She is also survived by her sister Joan Wolfinbarger of Republic, Bud (Donna)Parks of Springfield and several nieces and nephews.
Phil and Patsy were blessed with several grandchildren: Paula Dobe; Donna Kennedy; Ed Scott; Sam
Scott; Ken (Susan) Church of Springfield; Jessica Kay Church of Springfield; Patrick Kyle Church of Springfield; Dr. Phil Stepp of Springfield; and
Elizabeth Stepp of Columbia. They were both so proud of their great grandchildren: Katey Church and Hunter Fick.
Mr. and Mrs. Church had been active members of St. James Episcopal Church until
failing health prevented their involvement.
The family would like to give special thanks to the staff and friends at the Gardens Assisted Living, the Neighborhoods at Quail Creek, and Good Shepherd
Hospice for their loving care for one great lady.
Services will be Saturday September 4, 2010 at 10 am at Greenlawn North. The family
will receive visitors for the hour before the service. Burial will be at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens. Rev. Charles Hulik of St. James Episcopal Church
will conduct the service.
Online condolences may be made at
greenlawnfuneralhome.com Memorial contributions may be made to National Parkinson’s Foundation or the American Cancer Society or to the charity of your
choice.