Patricia Lynn Smith Rector, 84, passed away on October 25, 2026. She was born June 19, 1942, in McComb, Mississippi, to Clifton and Dolly Smith and was the oldest of their children. She grew up in Magnolia, Mississippi, where she attended school and proudly graduated with the Magnolia High School Class of 1960. She went on to earn her degree in Elementary Education from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1964.

As an Army wife, Patricia embraced the adventure of a military life. Throughout the years, she and her family lived in many places, including Berlin, Germany; Fort Benning, Georgia; Fort Riley, Kansas; Fort Ord, California; Norfolk, Virginia; and Washington, D.C. She taught in various schools in Georgia and Louisiana, including DeRidder, Walker, and Denham Springs. Eventually, she and her family made Denham Springs their home, where she lived for the past 43 years.

Patricia was a member of First Baptist Church of Denham Springs and a longtime member of the Friends with Faith Sunday School Class. She had a wonderful sense of adventure and never believed that age should stand in the way of trying something new. Along with a group of friends, she formed the “Granny Rafters,” and for ten years they enjoyed whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River in North Carolina, as well as zip lining and other outdoor adventures. This remarkable adventure began after they were all over the age of 70.

Patricia was also a member of the Pilot Club and helped raise funds for the Kids Korner Playground in Denham Springs. She and her husband, Dave, shared a love of travel and enjoyed exploring the world together by RV, airplane, or cruise ship. Their travels took them throughout the continental United States, Canada, Hawaii, Alaska, the Caribbean, Australia, Singapore, and Bali.

In recent years, Patricia and Dave became passionate fans of LSU Women’s Basketball, attending most of the team's home games. She treasured the time spent with her family and friends and will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, love of travel, devotion to her family, and zest for life.

Patricia is survived by her loving husband, David Rector; daughter, Corey Coke LeGrand (Chris); son, Shelby Coke (Anne); granddaughter, Addison LeGrand; stepson, David Rector, Jr. (Suzanne); stepdaughter, Cary Rector York (Marty); step-grandchildren, Emily Rector, Hannah Rector Weinzetl (Jake), William Rector, Grace York, and Ruby York; great-grandsons, Lincoln and Kit Weinzetl. She is also survived by her brothers, Tim Smith (Elizabeth) and Randy Smith (Ann); along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clifton and Dolly Smith.

Relatives and friends are invited to join the family for the visitation on Monday, November 2, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Denham Springs. Visitation will continue on Tuesday, November 3, from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 10:00 a.m., officiated by Bro. Leo Miller. The graveside service and burial will follow at Lea Cemetery in Gillsburg, Mississippi.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to a charity of your choice in Patricia’s memory.