Patti Fitzpatrick Sims, of Hazen, passed away January 2, 2016 at the age of 76 following a long and courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by her loving family.
Patti was born June 3, 1939 in St. Louis, Missouri, the daughter of the late Morton and Ruth (Lyles) Fitzpatrick. She was preceded in death by her parents and 2 grandsons, Kyler and Brayden Sims.
Patti was a member of the First United Methodist Church where she sang in the choir and was a youth leader for many years. She loved the children of Hazen and they loved her. “Miss Patti” ministered to many children through Vacation Bible School, Brownies, Cub Scouts, and Girl Scouts. Whether guiding young women through their first beauty pageant or delighting children with her fun portrayal of a witch at Halloween, Patti never missed an opportunity to be involved in her community. After her health declined, she still loved life and enjoyed reading, playing bridge and visiting with family and friends.
The family would like to thank Chambers Nursing Home of Carlisle for the love and excellent care given to our mother.
Patti was a loving mother and friend and she will be greatly missed by all. Patti is survived by her husband, Burk Sims; her children, Kathy Carter and Joe B. Carter, Jr. of Fayetteville, Lori (Brad) Caviness and Luke (Amanda) Carter of Hazen; her step-children, Buck Sims of Hazen, Shane (Kristi) Sims of Benton and Scarlett (Chris) Goodwin of Colorado. She also leaves behind many beloved grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be at Westbrook Funeral Home in Hazen on Monday, January 4, 2016 from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M..Funeral services will be at the First United Methodist Church in Hazen at 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, January 5, 2016. Interment will be in the Hazen Cemetery. Arrangements are by Westbrook Funeral Home of Hazen. In honor of Patti’s love of life and vibrant personality, the family requests those attending to add a splash of color to their attire.
The family requests memorials be made to the Hazen First United Methodist Church of the American Cancer Society.
We will all miss you girl. And we will all meet with GOD not long from now.
To Lori, Kathy, Joey, Luke & Mr. Burk and families,
Each of you are in my thoughts & prayers during this time of sorrow. I will forever remember Mrs. Patti as a vivacious and loving lady. She was a blessing to many, and spirited lady who will be truly missed by all that knew & loved her. May God reach out & hold you as only he can & give each of you comfort and peace. Prayers, Jennifer Adams Cook
Having been born elsewhere, Ms. Patti was not officially a Hazen native by birth. But she obviously became “more Hazen” than many other residents who were born in Hazen. Her civic involvement, her extraordinary support of local youth programs, her love of family and friends, her engaging personality, her radiant and captivating smile–these are just some of the memories we will cherish about her. Even as she was turning the last pages of her life as a resident of the nursing home, her beautiful smile would encourage others. Whether she was in the dining room, her room, or the hallway, her charming charisma would brighten the day of those around her. She will be missed. Our prayers continue that God’s Holy Spirit and His Word may provide assurance, comfort, and strength in this time of sorrow.
Kathy, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
From your friends in NWA.