Patricia Ann Smith

Smith, (Wilkinson) Patricia Ann, 81, passed away Sunday, Feb. 17, 2013. Pat was born Aug. 11, 1931 to Carl and Kathryn Wilkinson in Wichita. In everything she did, Pat led with excellence. She was crowned May Queen at University of Wichita in 1953. After graduation, she married her college sweetheart, Duane R. Smith in June of 1953. She worked as a dental assistant for Dr. Verne E. Howard for many years. She was very active in Gamma Phi Beta (Pi Kappa Psi) sorority and alumni, holding many leadership positions including alumni president. While their 6 children were busy swimming for the Wichita Swim Club, Pat was director of the WSC swim lesson program. As grandchildren arrived, Pat opened Grandma Pat’s Preschool in her home to care for grandchildren and others. In addition to her parents, Pat is preceded in death by her brothers Duane and Dorell Wilkinson. She is survived by her husband, Duane; her six children; Steve (Lisa) Smith of Denver, CO., Doug Smith of Los Angeles, CA., Becky (Ross) Way of Wichita, Dan (Janet) Smith of Lubbock, TX., Linda (Kevin) Cullinan of Wichita, Mike (Sally) Smith of Wichita and her 16 grandchildren; Dana and Jordan Smith, Ryan and Kris Smith, Drew (Kaitlin), Corey and Jake Way, Kelsey and Hannah Smith, Hunter and Tyler Jackson, Ian, Kyle and Dillon Cullinan and Rachel and Gavin Smith. “Pat was a positive force and her smile and laughter affected everyone around her”. A celebration of life service will be Friday, Feb., 22, at East Heights United Methodist Church at 11:00 am. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Alzheimer’s Association, 347 S. Laura, 67211.