Monday was July 4th, but today we celebrate Mom’s Independence Day.

Mom was very proud of growing up on the Manilla, IA farm. She thought that was the secret sauce of a happy and healthy childhood. She excelled in home ec., drama, and basketball in school.

Moving to Omaha after graduation, she worked at Mutual, as many young women of the time did. She met and married our dad in 1959. Having children and raising a family was her joy and focus. Together they created a homestead of vegetable and flower gardens, trees, and Mom’s own version of her livestock—chickens and a rooster named “Chester.” They were also very involved in the life of their church.

Widowed young in 1984, she filled her life with family, friends, and hobbies. And did she have hobbies! She was a knitter, crocheter, seamstress, painter, singer, and ballroom dancer. A noted cook, her dinners were weekly and holiday epics.

These last years she struggled with multiple medical conditions and surgeries, which she managed but took a toll on her sight, hearing, breathing, and walking. Her body didn’t reflect the youthful flirty spirit she was inside. But today she is free. Her favorite song was Jesus Loves Me This I Know, and we can hear her singing.

Patricia was preceded in death by her parents: Elsie & Charles Barrow; husband: Charles Wayne Dyas; sister: Gale Biggerstaff. She is survived by her children: Christine Dyas, Diane (Dave) Campbell, Peggy Rodewald, James Dyas; grandchildren: Jacob, Paige, Carter, Devin, Ava, Ryan; nephews: Matt, Steve; and other loving family & friends.