Patricia Dickerson

Patricia Jennifer (McCready) Dickerson - better known to those who love her as Patti, Grammy or Gertrude B. Grubby - passed away peacefully Monday evening, May 1, 2023, at the age of 72, after a lengthy battle with chronic kidney disease. Though we will miss her dearly, Patti's passing sets the stage for a long-awaited heavenly reunion with her husband of 35 years, Don Dickerson, who passed away in 2008.

Patti was born Dec. 10, 1950, in Elma, Washington, to Herbert W. McCready and Ruby Lynn Sheets. She grew up in the tiny town of McClearly, Washington, before graduating from Elma High School and moving to Olympia, where a co-worker introduced Patti to her handsome Army veteran brother, Don Dickerson. They were married six weeks later on July 21, 1973. Soon the couple relocated to Centralia, Washington, where they were joined by their son, Shawn Michael, in 1974, and their daughter, Lynn Michelle, in 1977.

Though her family was always her top priority, Patti also enjoyed a nearly 20-year career working at multiple nursing homes in a variety of positions. She always had a special place in her heart for the elderly - and both her patients and co-workers loved her enthusiasm, humor, talent, goofiness and compassion.

A major turning point in Patti's life came in October 1987 when she was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As a member of the church, she served the Lord and countless others as a ward and stake Relief Society president, a Primary teacher, and as the beloved "Sister Friendly," who brought surprises in every apron pocket.

Though Patti and Don had many ups and downs in their marriage, their final years together before Don's passing were their happiest. In addition to spending every possible moment with their eight grandchildren - Josh, Hailey, Caleb, Dallin, Natalee, Kainoah, Kaleio and Malia - they served together as missionaries for the church in the Washington Tacoma Mission, sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ and touching the lives of many friends and neighbors.

Until we're able to join her again in the next life, Patti will be remembered as the very best mom and grammy a family could ask for; one of the world's best bakers; an outgoing, joyful person who made lifelong friends wherever she lived; an entrepreneur and entertainer known as Gertrude B. Grubby who brought uproarious laughter to whatever party she wandered into; a trusted confidante and friend; and a faithful servant of the Lord.

Funeral services for Patti Dickerson will be held Saturday, May 6, 2023, at 11 am in the LDS chapel at 507 W 700 N in American Fork, Utah. There will be a viewing that morning from 9:45 am to 10:45 am in the same building.

A graveside service will also be held Friday, May 12, 2023, at 11 am at the McCleary City Cemetery in McCleary, Washington.