Patricia Diane Matthias

Pat began her career in education in California, teaching for several years before serving 44 years with DODDS (Dept. of Defense Dependent Schools), retiring in June, 2011. She taught in Germany before returning to the states for a year to pursue a Master's Degree in Library Science. She returned to Germany as a librarian in 1970 and then moved to schools in the Pacific in 1973 where she remained for over 30 years. She was a librarian in Okinawa, the Philippines, and mainland Japan. Pat was in the Philippines when she, along with personnel on Clark AFB, had to evacuate after the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo.

Throughout her career in DODDS, Pat enjoyed many pleasures: working in strong communities, instilling love for libraries in thousands of children, traveling extensively throughout the world, and enjoying the cultural experiences and friendships made possible by a life lived overseas.

Pat's life in retirement was full and active in the Valley. She enjoyed attending a variety of musical venues from the East Valley to the West. She had an important role as a volunteer with VNSA, preparing books in the travel (of course!) section for their annual book sale. Pat also maintained a small library for the parishioners of her church. She volunteered for the Heard Museum during their Fair and Market. She enjoyed luncheons with her sorority sisters from her ASU days. Pat loved hosting her lifelong friends from living overseas and showing them special places in AZ.

Pat's final arrangements have been made with Greenwood Memory Lawn Cemetery. Pat, may you rest in peace after a life well lived.