Patricia Deloras Little

October 25, 1931 – November 23, 2025

Patricia “Patty” D. Little, 94, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025. Born on October 25, 1931, in Rand, West Virginia, she was the daughter of Earl and Freda (Davis) McLaughlin. One of eight children, Patty grew up surrounded by the lively energy of a large family. She is survived by two beloved sisters, Joyce “Joy” Hoylman of Jacksonville, FL, and Dorothy “Dottie” Brown of Spencer, WV. Shortly after her birth, the family settled on a farm along the Poca River near Charleston, WV, where Patty spent her childhood playing on the riverbanks and helping on the farm.

During her time at Poca High School, Patty was known for her talent as a clarinet player, her strong academic abilities, and her beautiful penmanship. After marrying her husband, Robert “Bob” Little, she worked as a carhop at a Cleveland, OH restaurant—one that would eventually become a Kentucky Fried Chicken—while Bob worked as a cook. Patty later dedicated many years to caring for others as a nursing assistant in several hospitals in WV and OH, concluding her career at St. Alexis Hospital in Cleveland, OH.

Patty is preceded in death by her husband, Bob (1991); her daughter, Debra Kay (Little) Brych (2006); her sons Robert “Bobby” Little (2017) and Michael “Mikey” Little (2023); her grandson, Robert Little III (1971); and her grandson, Matthew Sochin (2014).

She is survived by her daughter, Patricia Karen (Little) Bailey of Clayton, NC, along with a large family of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will cherish her memory.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the dedicated team at Gabriel Manor Memory Care in Clayton, NC, for the kindness and attentive care they provided as Patty faced the challenges of Lewy Body Dementia. Patty took comfort in the home-cooked meals and found joy in the many activities, especially the Senior Ball.

They would also like to thank the staff of the UNC Johnston Health Emergency Department and the 3rd Floor Team for the compassion shown to Patty over the past few years. A special and heartfelt appreciation is offered to the staff and volunteers of the SECU Hospice House in Smithfield, NC. Their gentle support, care, and presence brought peace to Patty and her family during her final days. Though her life was marked by hard work and seasons of suffering, her final moments were spent in comfort, surrounded by love.

The family takes solace in knowing that Patty is now whole, with a clear mind, her body restored and reunited with the loved ones who went before her. They imagine her enjoying a warm cup of coffee, a cigarette, good conversation, and a lively all-night game of canasta with her cherished family in heaven.