Patricia Graves

Patricia Jean Graves, age 94, peacefully passed away on May 9, 2025. Born in Mayfield, Kansas on February 22, 1931, Pat spent much of her life in Wellington, Kansas, where she was a beloved member of the community. A devoted bookkeeper by trade, Pat showed her love for those around her through her mastery of baking, often sharing her delicious home-cooked goods with family and friends. Her deep faith was evident in her active participation at Hillside Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday School for many years. Pat’s dedication to service extended beyond her church as she dedicated much of her time to Prison Ministry Work, frequently cooking entire turkeys to bring to the men at the El Dorado prison for a taste of a home-cooked meal. Pat’s impression of Rosanna Anna Dana snorting and laughing could light up a room and bring laughter to anyone within earshot. Especially her grandchildren, who would giggle at a moment’s notice. It was one of her many gifts: the ability to make joy contagious. She loved to play cards, not just to win, but to share in the thrill of the challenge – and maybe, just maybe beat you with a sly smile and sparkle in her eye. We were blessed to experience her playful spirit, generous heart and unforgettable presence.

Pat is survived by her daughters, Lori (Kenny) Branning and Laura (Zach) Popplewell; her son-in-law; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and baby sister, Shirley Garrity; and sister-in-law, Margaret Wright. She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Thelma Wright; her husband, Bill Graves; her brothers, Charles (June) Wright and Kenneth Wright; her sister, Mary (Harold) McKee; her son, Kevin Farley; and her grandchildren, Dustin Wiley and Brayden Popplewell.

A graveside service to celebrate Pat’s life will be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. at Prairie Lawn Cemetery, located at 1422 East Harvey Avenue, Wellington, Kansas, 67152. Friends and family are invited to attend and remember Pat’s life of service, love, and laughter.

Memorial donations may be made in Pat’s memory to Hillside Baptist Church. Donations may be mailed or left with the funeral home.

Share a memory, leave condolences or sign her digital tribute wall at www.cornejofuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Cornejo Funeral Home + Crematory, Wellington, Kansas. We encourage you to upload photos and share your memories of Pat on the memorial page to help celebrate her wonderful life.