Patricia Howard Nix

One of her friends may have said it best: Patricia Nix was a force of nature. Our beloved “Bosslady” was so strong, sharp and fiercely independent that she seemed indestructible, but her loving heart finally gave out after a life well lived. Pat passed away in her hometown of Houston, Texas, with her son and daughter by her side. She was 84 years old.

Pat had a brilliant mind, and wisdom that came from shouldering enormous responsibilities from a very early age. She took care of her four younger brothers and sisters as a child herself, often running the household when her parents were away.

Pat studied at Louisiana State University, where she met Gaylen Nix, her husband of 40 years. She sacrificed her personal ambitions to raise her family, always putting them first. She also helped run her husband’s law firm as secretary and bookkeeper. Her children remember countless nights when she would burn the midnight oil, typewriter or adding machine clacking away. Yet she still managed to rise before anyone else, getting the kids off to school, then making sure she was home when they returned. She was very active in their lives, supporting them in their academics, sporting events, band activities and more.

After her children went off to college, Pat worked at their former high school, Nimitz, as assistant to the principal. There she developed lifelong friends, some of whom comprised the “lunch bunch” she cherished so much. After retirement, Pat spent much of her time volunteering, including helping seniors navigate complex Medicare regulations and paperwork. She also taught bridge, organized book clubs, and enjoyed coffee with neighbors.

So many of her traits were remarkable: her generosity, quick wit, loyalty, dignity and selflessness. But her thoughtfulness will especially be missed. Pat never forgot special occasions, sending cards to relatives and friends across the country. Our mailboxes will never be the same. And if a loved one had a baby, or had surgery, or otherwise needed a helping hand— she would be on their doorstep before they could even ask.

Pat was also a wonderful listener who enjoyed being a mentor. She had an uncanny ability to get people to open up. If you weren’t careful, you could end up telling her all your secrets— and get damn good advice on how to confront your challenges head on. She also loved to laugh and would tell mischievous jokes with a twinkle in her eye. Pat became a second mom to some of her children’s friends, who knew and loved her for decades.

Those left to carry on her spirit include her son David (Susannah); daughter Jane (Michael); grandchild James; nieces Linda, Catherine and Liz; and many great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and four siblings; Sue, Billy, John David and Stella.

The family is planning a memorial with details to be announced soon. As Pat was a lifelong book lover, we ask that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in her name to the Houston Public Library Foundation. https://www.houstonlibraryfoundation.org/

One of her favorite quotes says it all:

“The things you do for yourself are gone when you are gone, but the things you do for others remain as your legacy.” — Kalu Ndukwe Kalu

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.heightsfuneralhome.com for the Nix family.