It is with great sadness that the family of Patricia "Pat" Diana Stafford, 72, of Woodstock, Georgia, shares her passing and that she was welcomed home into the arms of the Lord on July 9, 2024.

Pat was a remarkable woman. She epitomized the charm and grace of a true Southern belle (along with the underlying grit and determination), and her cheer, vitality, and exuberance for life were beacons of light for all who knew her. She lived life with a full and giving heart; to know her was to know that you were loved and cared about. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Her family was blessed by her generous and loving kind heart.

Pat was born on October 22, 1951, to Harold and Flora Starnes in Atlanta, Georgia. After Pat graduated from North Cobb High School (where she was Homecoming Queen, surprising no one who knew her), she went on to study as a medical assistant which led to her working for Cartersville Surgical Associates. She loyally served the staff, doctors, and most importantly, the patients for more than 20+ years. During those 20+ years, she never met a stranger and always made everyone feel like the most important person in the room, easing their minds during difficult times and comforting them while being an unwavering presence by their sides.

Her hobbies included reading, watching every grandchild game/event, playing with her dog and granddogs, keeping her house spic and span, spending quality time with friends and family, and occasional beach trips.

To know Pat was to know that she was the living embodiment of love, and she was known for her willingness to express that love to her family and friends. She would go above and beyond to ensure that you knew that you were loved, cared for, and appreciated. Although her preference was undoubtedly a hug, Pat had no qualms about letting you know how cared about you were via a text message, a phone call, a smorgasbord of food, a quote, or an impromptu dance party if the situation called for it. Pat made sure that you knew that she cared, and she was a constant reminder and inspiration to not take tomorrow for granted when it came to expressing your love.

Pat is survived by her husband of 50 years, James Stafford, whose unconditional love, support, faith, and cooking were the cornerstones of the marriage that they built over the years. She is also survived by her older sister and her husband, Fyellis and Ronnie Austin; her younger sister and her spouse, Deborah and Bobby Waggoner; her son and his wife, Zac and Amy Stafford, and her daughter, Rebecca Milter. Pat is also survived by her most precious blessings, her three grandchildren whom she loved with all the fierceness and passion of a true mama bear, James Barron Stafford, Finley Mae Stafford, and Eleanor Gray Milter. Although their time with their beloved 'Pap-Pap" passed all too quickly, the memories, adventures, and inside jokes that they shared with her will hold special places in their heart for the entirety of their lives. Her grandchildren were Pat's "moon and stars" and her light will continue to shine through their lives because of the unwavering love she showered them with. The twinkle in her eyes that was such a part of her personality will assuredly be seen when looking into their eyes.

In this time of sorrow, there is also happiness in the promise of Pat's eternal life. We are confident that she is now at peace in the presence of our Lord. Her precious memory will forever be a cherished blessing, inspiring us to live with the same strength and appreciation for life that she embodied, and we know one day that we will be reunited with her. Pat was preceded in death by her parents as well as her inlaws, Flora and Harold Starnes and Ralph and Dot Stafford. Their reunion when they greeted her at the gates of heaven, alongside other family members/friends who preceded her, was undoubtedly a celebration. There is little doubt that she was also greeted by the barking and whines of many sheepdogs with wagging tails, eager for ear scratches, and joyful to see Pat again. Although we will miss her on Earth, we take solace in the knowledge that Pat will someday greet us with the warm smile and open arms that we treasured so dearly.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate the life of Pat, and services will be held at Northside Chapel Funeral Home 12050 Crabapple Road, Roswell, GA 30075 on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests guests bring a favorite quote that reminds them of Pat to share and celebrate her enduring spirit.
Pat's legacy of love and strength will continue to inspire all who knew her, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those she touched.