Patricia Witherspoon

Patricia Ann Washington Witherspoon was born on December 27, 1945, to the late Mary Ruth Davis and John Henry Washington, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Patricia, who was affectionately known as Mom, Mommy, Nana, Aunt Pat, Godmom, Patty and a host of other names, gained her wings on April 18, 2020.

Patricia was educated in the Philadelphia School System, and graduated from William Penn High School (Girls Only) and Community College of Philadelphia (Associates Degree in Nursing). She worked for Episcopal Hospital, Parkview Hospital, Independence Blue Cross and the Cancer Treatment Centers of America. Throughout her career, she worked in various capacities, such as an RN, Critical Care Nurse and Case Manager, to name a few. She retired from the Cancer Treatment Centers of America in January, 2010.

Patricia married her childhood friend, Samuel Witherspoon Jr., on December 17, 1966. Sam, affectionately called “Baye,” was the love of her life, and they spent over 53 years together as a happily married couple. From this union three children were born: Alicia, Aaron and Angela. Patricia was extremely proud of her children and their accomplishments, especially the grandchildren they gave her to love.

Patricia was a faithful and long-standing member of Bright Hope Baptist Church, in Philadelphia. She served the Lord, the Pastor and her Church Family, until her health declined. In December 2010, Patricia and Samuel renewed their vows at Bright Hope Baptist Church, and she was able to have the big, fairytale wedding she always wanted.

Patricia reigned with a soft hand and a loving heart. She displayed her love through her encouraging words, prayers, hugs, generosity, and a smile that will never ever be forgotten. She provided her family with education and information about the Davis-Washington-Henderson family history. Her heart and home were always open to any child that needed additional love and support, to help become successful. She was relentless with ensuring that she visited all of her family members, both local and out-of-town, on a regular basis. Patricia will always be remembered for truly loving her family, and always showing it.

Patricia had several hobbies that she was passionate about, including researching her family history, scrapbooking family photos, playing board games and cards, bowling, and dancing. She “lived her life like a Dancing Queen.” It was truly a pleasure to see Pat and Sam cut a rug. They flawlessly and gracefully danced some of the classics, like the Bop and Cha Cha, and then seamlessly transitioned to current line dances. Patricia’s other pastime was “The Order.” She was a member, and held several leadership positions, with the Most Royal Grand Court of Cyrene, Mary E. Cooper #14 (Queen of Sheba #19); Deborah Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, Inc., Booker T. Washington #36; Esther Grand Court, Ladies of the Circle of Perfection, Faith and Fidelity #2; Heroines of Jericho, Inc., Persha Ct #32; Order of the Golden Circle, Mary E. Gould Assembly #61 and Pyramid Ct #17.

Patricia left this world to be reunited with her parents and three siblings who preceded her in death – Alberta Beverly, Willie Mae Samuels and James Washington. She leaves to cherish her memory, her husband and soul mate Sam Witherspoon; three very devoted and loving children – Alicia Sager, Aaron

Witherspoon and Angela Witherspoon; a daughter-in-law, Lanzy Witherspoon; eight grandchildren - Demetryus (Aspen), Dominic, Deidre (Linda), Jordan, Jasmine, J’Nae, Ciana and Jevon; seven great grandchildren - Gabriel, Natalie, Jackson, Kylar, Denver, Fenix and Isliary; two siblings – Denise (Andrew) Thompson and Charles Washington; sisters-in-law – Jeanette (Harold) Washington, and Robinette Witherspoon; brothers-in-law Charlton (Alice) Witherspoon, Rodney (Linda) Witherspoon, and Arthur (Ora) Witherspoon; four godchildren – Clarissa Henderson, Deauna Dunn, Shakeya Heard and Charles Henderson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Sorrowfully Submitted,

The Family