Patricia Ann Thigpen

Patricia "Pat" Ann Thigpen, 80, went to be with the Lord on Friday, November 10, 2023, after bravely facing pulmonary fibrosis at WakeMed Cary Hospital. Her legacy of love and warmth will forever be held in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Pat is survived by her husband of 39 years, Arthur (A.T.) Thigpen, whose love sustained her through the years. She is also survived by her loving brother, Carlton (Gail) Whitaker; cherished children, Teresa Beingolea and James McLamb; her adored grandchildren, Jessica (John) Mohr, Daniel Beingolea, Kristen (Shane) Brady, Cory DuBois, Garrett (Rachel) Eder, Katherine Beingolea, and Monica (Spencer) Williams; and her beloved great-grandchildren, Rowan Brady, Elijah Frost, Declan Brady, and Arthur Lee Eder. Additionally, she leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Ida Whitaker; siblings, James "Donald" Whitaker and Brenda Medlin; daughter, Sandra Eder; and son and daughter-in-law, Jaime Beingolea and Pam DuBois. Pat's reunion with them marks the completion of a life well-lived and a love that transcends time.

Pat, known affectionately as "Crab," dedicated over 55 years to her passion as a hairdresser. Her passion led her to create her own business - Petite Beauty Salon, which was located behind her old house on Kildaire Farm Road. Later, she continued her career with an at-home salon within the warmth of her and A.T.'s house. Pat spent countless hours styling the hair of friends and loved ones, never missing the opportunity to share moments of reminiscing and joyous laughter with the person in her chair.

“Crab” loved her many cameras over the years which helped her capture tons of precious moments. She enjoyed working in her yard, creating scrapbooks, solving sudoku puzzles, and grabbing "the booth by the window" at Ashworth's. Family camping trips at Kerr Lake held a special and nostalgic place in Pat’s heart, creating lasting and treasured memories. Countless cherished moments were spent in Pat’s home, where she embraced the motto "come one, come all.” Each birthday and holiday were filled with home-cooked meals, personalized spreads, thoughtful gifts, and a welcoming place for friends and family alike to echo laughter and happiness. Pat embraced life with infectious enthusiasm.

Pat's family, which was her pride and joy, served as a testament to the love that filled her life. She made a point to be present and support her loved ones in their milestones and everyday moments. Her love served as a constant anchor which grounded her family and created a legacy of lasting love and family bonds.

As we mourn the loss of Pat, let us also celebrate the cherished memories she leaves behind. May her spirit continue to shine brightly in our hearts, a beacon of love that time cannot dim.

"Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy."

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