Patricia Ann (Wood) Emmons was born in Trumansburg, N.Y., on July 5, 1935, at her Grandmother Quinn’s home (since torn down). She grew up in Ithaca, N.Y., but her family later relocated to the Fort Wayne area where she attended Arcola High School. Aside from seven memorable years lived in Fla. during one of her many retirements, Patty was a lifelong Indiana resident. She died Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2015.

In her professional life, Patty dedicated herself to the hospitality industry where she learned everything possible to be a successful restaurateur. She ran, and eventually owned, quite a few restaurants. Her unique talent was making people feel so welcome in her establishments that they felt like part of the family. Patty was always ready to greet her patrons with a smile, and she always enjoyed a good laugh. Her keen sense of humor, coupled with her ability to whip up the some of the best comfort food around, always won over even the grumpiest of customers.

As a single mother with two young children in the late fifties, she eventually met the true love of her life, James Morrison. They were married in 1958, but tragedy struck again later in 1969 when Jim was taken by cancer. Patty always recalled the happiness of those years spent with Jim as some of the best of her life.

Patty was preceded in death by her loving parents: Clinton and Laura (Raymond) Wood; and her dear son: Johnny Hampshire; grandson: Jason Hampshire; brother: Rob; and sister: Barbara. She is survived by her children: Daughter: LaDawna (Jack) Carney; Debra (Gary) Clevenger; son: Russ (Lana) Morrison; and daughter: Laurie Morrison. Also her dear sister: Betty (Richard) Zylemaker; and brother: Jerry (Jan) Wood; many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and great-great-grandchildren; and many much loved nieces; nephews; in-laws; and friends.

Many thanks to all the folks at Gentiva Hospice Center for providing care during Patty’s final days. Teresa and Kristen offered excellent care even beyond the physical. Thanks for all the prayers and laughter.

Working with the Lighthouse Ministries in Lakeland, Fla., Patty was instrumental in helping to establish their annual Thanksgiving Feast for the Homeless back in the Nineties. Patty had always fed those less fortunate as they passed through. Her belief was “but for the grace of God, there go I”. Her acts of charity left an indelible impression upon all those close to her. If you would care to make a donation to honor Patty’s memory, you may do so at the Lighthouse Ministries website at https://secure.qgiv.com/for/?key=lighthouse, or by contributing to any of the local food banks near you serving the needy.

Services for Patricia Emmons will be held at 1 p.m. Friday Aug. 28, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, with Rev. Chris Beall officiating. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27, and one hour prior to service at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester. Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com