Patsy Roberts - Class of 1953

[Bob]

Patricia Ann (Roberts) Rankin, age 89 of Knoxville, TN passed peacefully into the presence of her Savior on the morning of April 4, 2025. She was affectionately known as Patricia, Pat, Patsy, Trisha, and Aunt Pat, but her most cherished was that of “Momma” to her son Danny. Following graduation from Rule High School in 1953, Pat began her career as a Legal Secretary for 25 years and then worked in the United States District Courts for 26 years for U.S. Magistrates Tom Dillard and Robert Murrian. Pat served in the unofficial capacity of Matriarch of the Roberts family. She was the keeper of family stories; was fiercely loyal, caring, and generous. She made family a priority, and was always present for all the milestones and celebrations of those she loved dearly. Always up for a road trip, Pat’s favorite places being Pawleys Island, New York City, and any beach, town, or cabin where she could be with family. She loved Christmas, old movies, puzzle books, ‘reality’ shows, reading, playing cards, and her weekly hair appointments. Preceded in death by her loving husband, Dan Rankin; step-son Michael Rankin; parents Lee and Mildred Roberts; sisters Bobbie Dunsmore, Nancy Humphrey; brothers Gordon Roberts and Gary Roberts; brother-in-law Louie Rankin; a niece and several nephews. Survived by her beloved son Danny (Dan) Rankin, Jr.; devoted sisters Linda Trotter Peterson (Tom) and Elaine Goodloe (Roy); several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews; to include special niece Karen Beal and husband Alan Beal for their love and support through the years. The family is grateful knowing Pat is now free of the illnesses that limited her ability to enjoy life to the fullest extent and on her terms these past few years. The family wishes to express our sincere gratitude to Fresenius Dialysis Clinic, Smoky Mountain Hospice, and Sacred Ground Hospice for their compassion and care. A receiving of friends and family for Patricia will be held Monday, April 7, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Berry Funeral Home, 3704 Chapman Highway, Knoxville, TN 37920. A graveside service will occur Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Berry Highland Memorial, 5315 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919, the Reverend Mike Segers will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Sacred Ground Hospice, 1120 Dry Gap Pike, Knoxville, TN 37918 www.sacredgroundhospicehouse.com or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Condolences and memories can be shared at www.berryfuneralhome.com.