Patricia Moody

Patricia (Pat, Patti, Mom, Grandma, Wa-wa, Greaty-Grandma, Mrs. Moody, Daisy) Irene Moody was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on June 5, 1918 to Thomas and Ina (Draa) Gibson.

She and her three sisters (Dorothy, Jo, Phyllis) grew up in Kalamazoo and spent their summers on Crooked Lake in Delton. It was there that Pat met her lifelong love on a blind date set up by her sister, Jo. Don Moody swept her off her feet and through their 63 years of marriage was often heard asking, “How could one woman be so lucky for so long?” She truly was.

Pat was the family keystone, taking charge and leading with her diligent, devoted spirit. Some of her happiest moments were spent with her many friends and family members. Golf, cribbage, bridge with friends, winters in Florida, a deep involvement in her church, and gatherings surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren always brought her joy.

Pat graduated from St. Augustine High School in Kalamazoo in 1936 and attended Nazareth College, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts, summa cum laude, in 1940. Pat spent 40 years of her life in the classroom, teaching in Delton from 1940-1961 and in Plainwell from 1961-1980. She truly loved her career as an educator, spending her days and sharing her heart with kindergartners and first graders who still approached her with hugs as grown adults.

Pat was a steadfast Catholic, never wavering in faith to her final day. Her children laugh about family vacation detours to visit the Lady of the Snows and rosary recitations on long car rides, but are in awe of the strength of her faith. Through this faith, she was able to remain a positive, steadfast, loving example for everyone around her.

She was well loved for her generous character, especially at the holidays when she would spend hours making and distributing her famous peanut brittle. Although the recipe has been passed on, no one will make it quite like Pat.

Pat will be loved and remembered by many, most especially her four children (JoAnn [Dan] Burchett, David [Laureen], Gregory [Becky], Mary Lou [Larry] Silver), ten grandchildren (Christina, Michael [Janelle], Justin [Sarah], Jon, Jennifer [Dan], Pearl, Gail, Steve [Samantha], Devon, Brynn), and ten great-grandchildren.

Pat Moody passed away peacefully November 3, 2016 at Stanford Lodge in Plainwell.