Patricia Ann Smith, affectionately known as "Mouse," was born on October 25, 1959, in Phoenix, Arizona, to the late Tommie Edward Smith (Shawnee, OK) and Vera Marie Smith (Hope, AR). On March 1, 2025, in Aurora, Colorado, she received her call to rest—though knowing her, she probably told the angels, "Hold on, I'm not done yet."

Patricia was welcomed into eternity by her loving parents, her brothers David and Charles, and her sister Shirley. She also leaves behind her wonderful, and deeply cherished siblings: Tom, Ralph, Trudy, Helen, Gloria, her in-laws, nieces and nephews, all who will surely keep her spirit alive with stories, laughter, and a little bit of friendly bickering.

Her greatest pride and joy were her children: Michael A. Stewart, Sharell A. Smith, Ashley L. Smith, and her son-in-law, Trumell Garrett. She poured her heart into them—sometimes with tough love, sometimes with endless humor, but always with unwavering devotion. Her grandchildren, Gavin Stewart ("Pooter"), Makayla Stewart ("Nae-na"), Syann Smith ("Tink"), and Jaelynne Stewart ("Jae/Bug"), were the lights of her life, and she made sure they knew it—whether through a home-cooked meal, a well-timed joke, or her signature side-eye.

Patricia grew up in Walla Walla, Washington. She had attended Public school systems from K-12. She went to Walla Walla High School (Wa-Hi) and participated in many of the schools activities. After graduation, she started her first job as a cashier at Kmart saving up, before college. Patricia was later accepted into Walla Walla Community College, and insisted on building a better life and career path for herself. She went to school pursing a degree in Business and Psychology. During her years in college, she later met Alfred Stewart Jr., and in the late 1970s to early 1980s, she made her way to Denver, Colorado, where she built a beautiful, loud, and loving family.

Her love for her family knew no bounds—though if you asked her, she'd joke, "I don't play about my kids... but they sure do get on my nerves!" Patricia had a unique presence in the room, and no one ever left a conversation with her, without laughing (or being given a nickname they were stuck with forever). She believed in calling people by the names she gave them, and if you argued, well… good luck with that!

Food was Patricia's love language. She wasn't just a cook—she was the cook! If you were lucky enough to have one of her meals, you knew it was made with love (and probably a little attitude if you were in her kitchen when you weren't supposed to be). If you ever purchased her seafood, just know you were her favorite person in the world! Holidays were her time, and you'd better not be in the way when she was cooking! She was the only woman we knew who would barbecue in a blizzard, selling $10 plates like it was a summer cookout. Ms. Pat's kitchen was legendary, and her food brought people together in the best way.

Beyond the kitchen, Patricia loved spending time with her girls. Her childhood bestfriend Terry who she remained in contact with. Or her close adult bestfriend Carla. Whether it was long talks on the phone, cooking with her girls, sharing laughs, or cutting up. She valued these friendships. She was the friend you could always count on—very blunt, loyal, supportive, and full of wisdom (even if it came with a little sass).

Patricia Ann Smith was a woman of strength, good energy, humor, and boundless love. She lived life on her terms, loved fiercely, and left behind a legacy of laughter, resilience, and unforgettable memories. She was truly a fighter in every aspect of her life. Though she may no longer be here in person, her spirit remains—keeping an eye on us all, making sure we do right, and continuing her traditions!

May her memories live on in each of us and bring comfort to our hearts. What we once deeply cherished, we can never truly lose. Though she is no longer with us in this life, she is now closer to the Lord. You will forever remain with us, surrounded by love, and we take comfort knowing you are watching over us always.

Rest peacefully, Ms. Pat. We love you more than words can say… even if you'd tell us we were getting on your last nerve!