Celebrate Patty Lee's Legacy of Joy and Teaching

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Patty Lee, a beloved teacher whose life’s greatest joy, apart from her family, was supporting and guiding her students. In her memory, we wish to honor her passion for education by establishing the Patty Lee Memorial Fund. This fund will support students in Carter County through scholarships and educational resources, allowing her legacy of generosity and dedication to live on by empowering future student leaders in need. Any contribution to this fund, large or small, will help bring this vision to life, and we are deeply grateful for your support and for the role each of you played in her life. She will be dearly missed.

**We invite you to join us in honoring the life of Patty Lee through two special services:

Celebration of Life

Thursday, Nov. 21 at 1 pm

Jerome Westheimer Center for the Performing Arts

921 Veterans Blvd, Ardmore, OK 73401

Catholic Funeral Service

Friday, Nov. 22 at 10 am

Saint Mary Catholic Church

101 E St SW, Ardmore, OK 73401

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Patty Lee, born on October 15, 1959, in Owatonna, Minnesota, to William and Ethel Schraad, was the firstborn of five siblings in a lively, bustling home. With a spirit as vibrant as the stories she loved to tell, Patty brought joy, laughter, and insight into the lives of countless people.

Patty was more than just her roles—an educator, mother, sister, friend, and storyteller—she was an experience. She brought her boundless love and nurturing energy to her family, raising her beloved daughter Katie and cherished son Steven. Patty’s greatest joys were her granddaughters, Laurel and Leighton, who affectionately knew her as “Lollee.” This name was a testament to the playful, loving, and fun spirit she brought to every interaction with them. She relished the moments spent reading to them, watching their adventures, and sharing laughter that only a “Lollee” could inspire.

Patty’s passion for teaching was unmatched. She didn’t just educate—she inspired, mentored, and formed lasting bonds with her students. She loved shaping young minds, instilling in them a love for literature, writing, and critical thinking. Patty’s dedication extended beyond the classroom as she was an advisor for the student council and student leaders. Guiding students in leadership roles brought her immense joy. Teaching was not just her career; it was her calling, a source of deep fulfillment, and a testament to her generous and curious spirit.

Patty’s love of books was an extension of her teaching. She delighted in getting lost in stories and sharing that joy with others. Beyond the classroom, her garden was another reflection of her nurturing soul; she tended to her plants with the same care and dedication she showed to the people she loved, finding peace and joy in the colors and life that surrounded her home.

Whether she was recounting tales from her adventurous childhood (like the infamous incident involving a horse and a swimming pool), celebrating life’s small moments, or nurturing her students, garden, and grandchildren, Patty’s life was a tapestry woven with stories, laughter, and deep affection.

Patty leaves behind not only her beloved children, Steven and Katie, and her granddaughters, Laurel and Leighton, but also countless students, friends, and admirers who carry pieces of her stories within them. To honor Patty, remember that life is best lived when told like a great story—full of heart, a little bit of embellishment, and a lot of laughter.