Patricia Peoples

With hearts full of both sorrow and gratitude, we celebrate the extraordinary life of Patricia Nell Peoples, who departed this world on June 16, 2025, at the age of 83. Pat’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with elegance, warmth, strength, and a deep love for her family, her faith, and her many gifts.

Born on April 1, 1942, to Gene and Nell Ashley, Pat came into this world with a radiant light that never dimmed. She carried herself with stately grace and quiet strength, a woman whose beauty—both inside and out—left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Pat was truly the epitome of a classy lady, with an elegance that seemed timeless and a presence that made time stand still.

Family was the heartbeat of Pat’s world. She cherished reunions, large gatherings filled with laughter, stories, and the joy of simply being together. Her love was most often expressed through acts of service, and nowhere was that more evident than in her kitchen. A phenomenal cook, Pat’s lasagna—with handmade noodles crafted from scratch—was legendary, and her pies, especially her renowned coconut cream, were second to none. Her meals were more than food; they were memories in the making.

Pat was a gifted and passionate artist. Her work in ceramics and stained glass reflected the depth of her soul and the detail of her eye. A true master of the kiln, she breathed life into her creations—so much so that people often marveled at the lifelike eyes of her favorite subject: the bunny rabbit, and Saint Nick himself, Santa Clause. Her artistic spirit extended into the garden as well, where she nurtured blossoms with two green thumbs and an unmatched devotion. Her gardens, like everything she touched, flourished under her care and stood as a reflection of her pursuit of beauty and excellence.

With a love for the sweet things in life—especially candy bars—Pat’s sweet tooth was well known and lovingly indulged. She also had a special fondness for good old-fashioned Mexican food, another testament to her vibrant and joyful spirit.

Professionally, Pat was the backbone of her workplace. As office manager at State Farm Insurance for 30 years, she was known affectionately—and truthfully—as the one who truly “ran the place.” Her work ethic, dependability, and leadership were unmatched.

Pat’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. A devoted Christian, she lived out her beliefs with humility and authenticity. Her spiritual foundation was laid at Shiloh Terrace in Dallas, Texas, a church that deeply shaped her walk with Christ. That walk continued in Hot Springs, where she served tirelessly through First Baptist Church, ministering to the homeless with meals, clothing, and compassion. Her faith wasn’t just spoken—it was lived, day by day, through acts of love and service.

Despite her elegance, Pat was never afraid to get her hands dirty—whether in clay, soil, or service. She was grounded, genuine, and real. She floated into rooms with grace, yet remained deeply rooted in authenticity. Her light was magnetic, and her presence comforting.

Pat is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Gene and Nell Ashley, and her brother Richard Ashley. She is survived by her loving daughters, Ashley Peoples and DeAnna Case; her devoted siblings Jimmy (Susan), Tommy (Debbie), Merle, and Rita Ashley; her cherished grandchildren; and a large, loving extended family—all of whom she adored and held close to her heart.

To know Pat was to be loved by her, and to love her was to be blessed beyond measure. Her absence leaves a profound void in the lives of all who knew her, but her spirit lives on in every flower that blooms, every pie lovingly baked, and every act of kindness extended in her name.

The world is quieter without her, but oh, how much brighter it was because she was in it.

Patricia Nell Peoples—forever loved, forever missed, and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Alzheimer's research or a charity of your choosing in Patricia's name.