Patty Ann Nigro

Patty was born on May 8, 1951, at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, to William Frank Nigro and Evelyn Mary Metcalf. As the daughter of a Marine, she spent her childhood traveling with her family before they eventually settled in Southern California near Camp Pendleton. As an adult, Patty lived in Hawaii and on the East Coast, but Oceanside remained home for much of her life.

Patty was a hairstylist for 50 years, a career that suited her perfectly. She loved people, loved to talk, and had a personality that filled the room. She loved tennis, dancing, cooking and baking—especially her famous gingerbread cookies—entertaining family and friends, trips to Palm Springs with her husband Preston and their dogs, and visiting her favorite casino.

Patty was small in stature but larger than life—a true force of nature in the best possible way. She had a strong personality, a generous heart, and a love for her family that was unmistakable. She and Preston shared a deep love of their dogs, who were very much their family. Jett and Tori will continue to be cherished and cared for by family friends, while Diva and Skylar preceded them in death.

Patty was preceded in death by her parents, William Frank Nigro and Evelyn Mary Metcalf, and by her beloved husband, Preston Blair Ball, who passed away on March 24, 2026. Patty and Preston will be laid to rest together, celebrating the life they shared.

She is survived by her siblings, Pamela Nigro, William Nigro Jr., Tina Bolden, Mark Nigro and his wife, Jean, Dorothe Nigro Pfautz, Anthony Nigro and his partner, Tayha, and Catherine Crews and her husband, Ossie; her nieces and nephews, Tia and her husband, Jerry, Breana, Joshua and his wife, Kamry, Matthew and his wife, Janie, Hollan, Darron, Alexa, and Ossie W.; her great-nieces and great-nephews, Gabriella, Charlotte, and Archer; and her best friend, MaryAnn.

Patty leaves behind a family who will miss her deeply, as well as countless memories of her laughter, energy, stories, cooking, dancing, and unmistakable presence. She will be remembered for exactly who she was: unforgettable.

A Catholic Mass celebrating Patty's life will be held at 1:15 p.m. on Monday, September 28, 2026, at Mission San Luis Rey. Following the Mass, Patty and Preston will be interred together at Eternal Hills Memorial Park in Oceanside, honoring the life they shared.

A reception will immediately follow the interment, where family and friends will gather to celebrate both Patty and Preston. Everyone is welcome to attend the Mass, interment, and reception.