of Yellville, AR
January 18, 1949 - October 3, 2021
On January 18, 1949 in Little Rock, Arkansas, the family of Elbert and Martha Graves was blessed by the arrival of their baby daughter Patsy Dean. Patsy was born into what would become a large family with many beloved siblings. She lost her heart to a tall young man she first saw on a baseball field, and on May 20, 1967, she married that young fellow, Jimmie C. Raley, and began a 54 yearlong union that served as a model to their children for what sacrificial love in a marriage looks like. Together, they raised their large family in a home that was filled with love and laughter.
Patsy loved her Jesus, her family, her flowers, and her vegetable garden, probably in that order. She was the rare sort of person that could take on any task and do it well, and she put particular effort into making her home a place of comfort, joy, and love. She unconditionally loved her family and was gifted in her ability to make each child feel special and unique. She delighted in taking special care of her loved ones. Favorite family stories include how she would iron Jimmie's underwear on winter mornings so he wouldn't have to put them on cold or how she would wake up extra early each morning so she could serve a hot breakfast. On school days, her children would laughingly tell her how the kids on the bus would longingly sniff them as they walked by and tell them they smelled like bacon.
Patsy was a gifted cook who delighted in making large, delicious meals for her family and guests. Most loved were her hot rolls that were so light, buttery, and delicious that they were greatly anticipated by those invited to a meal. Invitations to eat at Patsy's table were prized and everyone was sent away with a full belly and to-go plate while Patsy and Jimmie stood outside to wave goodbye.
After a hard battle with a virus that is wreaking havoc on many other families too, Patsy passed from this world unexpectedly and much too soon on October 3, 2021 and has left her family grieving and bereft yet hopeful in their confidence of one day hugging her again in Heaven.
She was preceded in death by one child; her mother and father; a beloved sister, Kathleen; and a granddaughter, Emma. She is survived by her husband, Jimmie; her daughter, April Hoyt and husband Rich with grandchildren Micah, Timothy, Anthony, Butch, and Anabel; her daughter, Eve Hatman and husband Kelly with grandchildren Saxton, Trenton, Lauren, Eden, and Allison; her daughter, Katie Abbott and husband David with grandchildren Christian, Trinity, and Jacob; her son, Josh Raley; her son, Clint Raley and wife Briana with grandchildren Owen and Mila; and son, Jim Raley with wife Nicole. She was also blessed with many great-grandchildren.
Funeral service will be 2:00 pm Saturday October 9, 2021 at Roller-Burns Funeral Home Chapel in Yellville with Vernon Livingston officiating.
Visitation will begin one hour prior to service time.
Interment will follow at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery near Yellville.
Memorials may be made to Y-S School for Kids Fund, 1124 N. Panther Ave., Yellville, AR 72687.
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19 Condolence(s)
Pamela Robbins
Saturday, October 9, 2021
Jim and family, sorry for your loss just isn't enough when it comes to such a wonderful woman. I met Patsy during a very difficult time in my life, not only did she welcome me like she had always known me but gave me advice I still carry with me. She will always have a very special place in my heart. Love and comfort to her husband, children , grandchildren, great grandchildren and the many others who loved her so much. She will never be forgotten
ROBERT BARRON
Saturday, October 9, 2021
Praying for you April and all the grandchildren family during this hard time
Jeff and Tammy Piotrowski
Friday, October 8, 2021
Jim and family, we are so sorry to hear about the passing of Patsy. She was always such a kind and sweet lady. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of your family.
Charles Mizell
Thursday, October 7, 2021
May the Lord hold you all in his comforting arms.
Vernon R Livingston
Thursday, October 7, 2021
To one of the most loving family, our God has every created. We will all miss Sister Patsy, and them home made pancakes. But God now has another cook in heaven. So family and friends be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Love y'all. Elder,Vernon Livingston
Terry & Sandy Passmore
Wednesday, October 6, 2021
Patsy was such a dear, sweet lady and loved by all that knew her.
May God be with you Jim and your family during this difficult time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Wendy Trenham
Wednesday, October 6, 2021
I'm so sorry for your loss... She was my Aunt and I loved her dearly. She was always good to me. My thoughts and prayers for the entire family.
Joy Willis
Wednesday, October 6, 2021
I am so sorry to hear about your lose,I have always thought a lot about you all.If you just need someone to talk to just give me a call. 870-449-6018 I know I can't help you deal with your loss but I am a good listen.
John massey
Tuesday, October 5, 2021
I am sorry for the family loss prayers
Richard and Doris Abbott
Tuesday, October 5, 2021
There are no words that can take away the sorrow that is in your hearts right now . Just know that our thoughts and prayers are of you and that we will all gather together one day in glorious celebration .
Connie Murphy
Tuesday, October 5, 2021
R I P Patsy Love Always
Dawn Mechelle Johnson
Tuesday, October 5, 2021
Sorry for your loss. Praying for you all.
Rebecca Richey
Tuesday, October 5, 2021
Sympathy and Prayers to family. From Bonnie Richey Family. God Bless and give you comfort at this time.
Sharon woolwine
Tuesday, October 5, 2021
Prayers for all I am so sorry she’s in heaven now we all can’t wait to be together again one day love u all
Jessica Butterfield
Tuesday, October 5, 2021
Much love to you all. We're so thankful for the beautiful memories we have and will cherish. Thank you all for sharing your family so freely, Ms. Patsy always made us feel loved and welcome (and full...really really full!)
Rhonda Brock
Tuesday, October 5, 2021
Jim and family. There are no words to express our sorry at Pats passing. She was such a special person and such a wonderful cook. I am truly thankful to have known her and called her, "Friend". She will leave such a big hole in our world but, our loss is heavens gain. Our thoughts and prayers are for your strength and comfort in knowing that we will see her again. Love you all so much!!
Barbara Davenport
Monday, October 4, 2021
To the family, I am so sorry to hear about Patsy's passing. She was always friendly and sweet. Such a good mom, wife and cook! She will be missed by all who knew her.
Kay Boe
Monday, October 4, 2021
Prayers are with you let me know if I can help you in any way
Kay Boe
Monday, October 4, 2021
Prayers are with you let me know if I can help you in any way