Patricia Rose Jones

We now and forever celebrate the extraordinary life of Dr. Patricia Rose Jones, a devoted mother, scholar, and woman of faith. Her legacy will continue to flourish through the lives she graced along the paths she paved.

Patty faced pancreatic cancer quietly and courageously for over a year, never allowing it to dim the joy she found in life. She continued to fill her days with the things she loved most, surrounding herself with the people and activities that brought her happiness. As the sun rose on the morning of September 8th, 2025, with peace and grace, Patty Jones was lovingly welcomed home by her Heavenly Father.

Born the youngest of five children on September 15th, 1957 in Spokane, Washington, it wasn't long before Patty set down roots in San Diego with her family. Growing up, she had too many hobbies to name; her childhood was filled with competitive roller skating, drive-in movies, road trips, proudly earning every single Girl Scout badge, and much more. It was just the beginning of a remarkably accomplished life.

A proud Kearny Komet, Class of 1975; this year marked her 50th high school reunion. Patty sang alto in their a capella choir, and lettered in three sports: softball, badminton, and field hockey. She remembered high school as some of the best times of her life, cherishing the lifelong friendships and memories she carried with her.

Patty found harmony in exploring the ocean and the outdoors; scuba diving for abalone, exploring hidden corners of town, following in her father’s footsteps at the bowling alley, swinging away at the batting cages, sewing custom pieces, dancing to live music, supporting her Church community, and cherishing quality time with her family. She found great fulfillment in her long-standing work with her personal trainer, where her impressive dedication to weightlifting not only built her strength but also gave her the resilience to excel in all of life’s pursuits.

Never ceasing to expand her horizons, Patty had an ever-growing curiosity in life and a deep love of learning. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry at San Diego State University (Aztec for life!), a Master's in Chemistry at U.C. Santa Barbara, and later, a Doctorate in Business Administration at the age of 60. She trailblazed a monumental 40-year career in aerospace engineering, leaving a lasting mark on her field and colleagues.

Following retirement, Patty wasted no time giving her most precious gifts of knowledge, wisdom, expertise, and above all, time to everyone that was lucky enough to know her. She was a cherished and active volunteer at The Old Globe, The San Diego Symphony, The Rady Shell, The Birch Aquarium and the Scripps Institute of Oceanography, and The Natural History Museum, where she contributed her specialized skills to the paleontology department, as well as to The Whalers. If you were fortunate, you might have even spotted some gray whales or a pod of a thousand dolphins alongside her on a cruise in the San Diego Bay.

Patty also served as a science coach with The American Chemical Society, bringing chemistry and science to life for many students. She inspired scholars of all ages, from elementary school to doctors of philosophy, always offering her undivided support and attention. Her mentorship and encouragement left lasting imprints on countless lives.

Her everyday actions exemplified integrity, curiosity, and an unmistakable charm. Patty journeyed through a life that uplifted and edified all around her. Her footprints will never fade and will continue to guide those she touched. She was a beacon of service, education, and guidance.

Throughout her decades of giving back, she received countless achievements and awards to add to her ever-growing collection of accolades. She was talented and adventurous, always willing to try new things as life presented opportunities. Patty snorkeled and danced in Hawaii, relived history in St. Augustine, solo traveled by train across Germany while visiting her children abroad, and celebrated the traditions of Diwali with loved ones.

Patty is survived by her devoted family: her esteemed son, Sergeant First Class Andrew Tyler Talbott, and his wife, Megan Ann Talbott; her favorite daughter, Jacquelyn Elise Talbott; and her beloved son, David Alexander Talbott. She was delighted in knowing that Andrew and Megan would soon welcome their first child, and that her family would soon be blessed with her first grandchild, expected in March 2026. She is also survived by her sister Deb, and brothers Bill and Tom. She was preceded in death by her brother Jim who passed in 2024.

Her family is comforted knowing her legacy lives on in the many lives she inspired, the lessons she passed down, and the love that remains ever present.

Friends and family will gather to rejoice in the life of Dr. Patricia Rose Jones at El Camino Memorial in 2026. Service details will be shared at a later date. We welcome you to honor Patty’s memory by sharing your personal stories, photos, and reflections here.