1948-2025
Patrecia Emley, age 76, of Slater, passed away Friday, Aug. 22, at the Israel Family Hospice House.
Patrecia Ann (Hodges) Emley was born at Guthrie Center on Nov. 12, 1948, the eldest daughter of John and LaVaun Hodges. She grew up on a farm near Yale and graduated “Class Valedictorian” from Yale-Jamaica-Bagley Consolidated High School in 1967. Pat was an accomplished musician, active in band and high school state competitions. Her talents went beyond music, attending a ballet school of dance instructed by the internationally renowned Betty Mae Harris in Boone. Pat attended Drake University, majoring in music.
Pat was united in marriage with her high school sweetheart, William Emley, at the “Little Brown Church” in Nashua on March 16, 1968. They made their first home in Long Beach, California, while Will served in the U.S. Navy. She was the proud mother of one son, Troy Matthew.
While Will was serving in the U.S. Navy, Pat found employment in a clerical position with the County of Los Angeles in the Department of Social Services. She advanced to the position of “Supervisor.”
Pat and Will moved to Ames in 1974. While Will attended Iowa State University, Pat found employment as a Budget Analyst with the Ames Laboratory on campus. She was employed with the Ames Laboratory for 40 years, retiring in 2015.
Pat and Will joined the North Grand Church of Christ in 1975. Pat used her God-given talents at the church. She played the piano, organ and keyboard regularly for 39 years.
As a hobby, Pat knit and crocheted. For a few years, she entered many of her creations in the Iowa State Fair, earning a showcase full of ribbons. In 1994, the Iowa State Fair offered the “Fastest Fingers in Iowa” competition. Pat was crowned the very first “Champion.” She was the reigning champion for several more years. Later in life, she crocheted hats for babies in hospitals and the annual North Grand Christian Church garage sale.
Pat enjoyed traveling and camping. She and Will traveled all over the United States, exploring historical sites, observing natural wonders and experiencing regional cultures. They visited most of the national parks in the United States and Canada, and many state parks. She enjoyed the cultural experiences. When the grandchildren were old enough, they became involved in the explorations.
Pat enjoyed retirement, with more time for the activities she wanted to do. She operated her life at the pace she enjoyed.
Mourning the loss of Pat is her husband, Will Emley; son, Troy (Jordan) Emley; grandchildren, Nolen Emley, Elizabeth (Brandon) Venneman and Spencer Emley; brother, Mike (Susan) Hodges; sister, Joy (Alan) Barnhart; and several beloved church sisters, brothers and family friends.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Aug. 29 at North Grand Christian Church with a visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the North Grand Christian Church Music Ministry.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.adamssoderstrum.com
Adams Funeral Home in Ames is assisting the family with arrangements.