Born Patricia Davis in West Orange NJ, she grew up in Windsor MO. Music was her focus at an early age, and remained so throughout her life. Trained on the piano from childhood, she graduated from Windsor High School in 1948. She received an undergraduate degree from the University of Kansas in 1952. She obtained her Masters degree in Music Education in 1953 from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She went on to teach music at the University Lab School until 1959. From 1960 through the 1980's, she taught private piano lessons at the studio in her home.
She married Norman S. Lawnick in Columbia in 1954. In 1960 they adopted their son, Stephen Michael, who survives. Norman preceded her in death in 1984. In 1999, a long time friendship turned to love when she married Paul Ritchie of Columbia. Paul passed away in 2019. She is survived by her son Stephen of Columbia, step-daughters Paula Ritchie and Patty Ritchie, and several nieces and nephews.
She was very involved in civic and professional organizations throughout her life. She was a member and office holder in Sigma Alpha Iota (an international professional music society for women). She was a Sigma Kappa alumnae, and a member of King's Daughters and Sons, Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Red Cross. She was a member of the Music Symphony Society, and was involved in the restoration of the Missouri Theater.
A former pilot, she was an active member of the Missouri Pilots Association.
Perhaps seeking redemption for her undergraduate days, Patricia was an avid and lifelong fan of the Missouri Tigers. She greatly enjoyed attending Mizzou football games for many years, first with her son Steve, and later with her husband Paul.
Services will be held on Thursday August 13 at Memorial Funeral Home. There will be a visitation at 11:00 am, followed by a service at 1:00 pm.
Memorials can be made to the First Christian Church, Columbia MO.
