Patricia Ann Bixby

Patricia Ann Bixby, affectionately known for her sweet and kind spirit, was born on May 21, 1938, in Rossville, Kansas. She passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025, in St. Marys, Kansas, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, care, and love that touched all who knew her.

A proud graduate of Rossville High School in 1956, Patricia dedicated 37 years of her life to the noble profession of nursing; she worked as a licensed practical nurse at St. Francis Hospital. An angel of mercy, she cared for the ill, providing comfort and compassion to her patients during their most vulnerable times. Her commitment to nurturing others was also evident in her devoted care for her elderly parents, Oscar and Charlotte Bixby, in their final years. Patricia often reflected on her desire to have children of her own; however, she found immense joy and fulfillment in the lives of her numerous nieces and nephews, whom she cherished dearly.

Patricia's life was rich with memories, filled with the warmth of family gatherings, particularly holidays spent at Grandma and Grandpa Bixby’s house. She took great delight every Christmas in gifting a new pair of socks for each of her nieces and nephews, a tradition that showcased her love and thoughtfulness. Family occasions were never complete without Patricia's presence, as she was a very special part of Donna’s family, bringing joy and laughter wherever she went.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Patricia loved to travel, with particularly fond memories of a trip to Switzerland and Germany during her younger years. She enjoyed traveling across the United States with her sister, Genevieve Jenssen, as well as spending summer vacations with her sister Betty and her family. In her younger years, Patricia enjoyed sewing and crocheting. One of her greatest joys in life was spending time with extended family and enjoyed the friendship of her little nieces and nephews. 

Patricia was very proud of her Catholic Faith and was a member of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Rossville, KS for her entire life. 

Patricia is survived by her beloved sister, Genevieve Jenssen of Rossville, KS, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews who will forever honor her memory. She was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar and Charlotte (Hurla) Bixby, sisters, Teresa Miller and Betty (Hinterweger) Cummings, and brothers-in-law, Lloyd Miller, Donald Jenssen, and Eric Hinterweger. She was also preceded in death by her niece, Joyce Jenssen, and her nephews, Edward Jenssen, Daniel Hinterweger, Timothy Miller, and Bruce Reynolds. 

A visitation will be held on Thursday,January 30, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a Rosary at 7:00 PM at Piper Funeral Home, located at 714 Maple St, St. Marys, KS. A funeral Mass will be celebrated to honor her memory on Friday, January 31, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 703 Main St, Rossville, KS, followed by her burial in Rossville Cemetery. 

Patricia Ann Bixby lived a full and productive life, touching countless hearts with her gentle spirit and unwavering dedication to caring for others. She will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by her family and all whose lives she enriched.