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Patricia Payne Obituary
Patty was born in Bethesda, MD on December 6, 1964 but did not remain in Maryland for long. She moved to Texas in 1965 when her dad retired from the Navy and settled in Spring, Texas. Patty grew up there, graduating from Woodland High School located in The Woodlands, Texas and then attended Texas A&M University starting in 1983. After a couple of false starts in computer science, accounting and business, she finally followed her heart and became a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine graduating and getting her license in 1991. She initially practiced at various clinics in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.
Patty was invited to Alaska in 1997 by her friend and fellow vet Dr. Lea McWilliams of the Alaska Veterinary Clinic. She fell in love with the state and after a few more visits Patty and Lea struck a deal. Patty arrived in Anchorage on May 10, 2006 and started working for Lea the next week. She quickly settled into the routine of being "Dr. Patty" to many new furry friends and in the process met many wonderful people. During her short six years in Alaska she explored Homer, her favorite place to visit, took up painting, ceramics, photography, fiddle playing, quilting - just to name a few.
Patty loved life and fought her cancer to the end. Her family would like to thank all those who did so much for her when she needed help while we were so far away.
In place of a memorial service her family and friends are celebrating her life with "Patty Payne's Memorial Celebration Picnic" on Saturday, August 25, 1:30-3:30 p.m., at the Alaska Zoo, Gateway Event Hall, 4731 O'Malley Road. Potluck dish and stories are welcome.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Patricia Payne
Dona Elton DVM
September 21, 2012
Patty was a wonderful person. I got to know her at veterinary school. Unfortunately, I lost touch with her after leaving Ft. Worth. My sympathy for all her loved ones that she left behind.
Lois Turinsky
September 18, 2012
We will always remember Dr. Patty's kindness to our pets and her gentleness to us. What a lovely person! We will miss her and are thankful to have known her. Mrs. Garrett, Lois Turinsky and Kristin, Jack and Temple Vice
Pat Hayes
August 27, 2012
Patty excelled in whatever she set out to do. I have two wonderful framed photographs that she gave me. One is of Texas Bluebonnets and the other of my daughter and I. Everyone that she touched will miss her. My sincere condolences to her family.
Scott and Debbie Gryder DVM
August 26, 2012
Patty was a very special friend and a dedicated and caring veterinarian. I first met her when we were both starting veterinary school and we shared many happy times together. She fought a long and courageous battle against cancer. Patty made the world a more special place for those around her. She loved her pets, her job, her hobbies, her family and Alaska. She will be greatly missed but we know she is healthy again and in a much better place. Bye Patty, miss ya.
The Woods' Family
August 25, 2012
Our heart goes out to Patty's family. She was the most kind, loving vet who did anything and everything for her patients. Her life is an example of how to consistently put others first and care/serve others before yourself.
Michelle and John Herbst
August 25, 2012
Dr Patty was a wonderful vet, who cared not only for our pets, but for the owners. I know that she is at the Rainbow Bridge, greeting our pets and watching out for them until we join them. My thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends and co-workers. She will be missed!
Jami and Dieter Eistetter
August 25, 2012
My condolences to Dr. Patty's family and friends. The special care and attention she gave to my pets (especially Dieter) always made us feel that we were the most important. We will miss you.
August 25, 2012
Dr. Patty had a sweet and gentle manner that always calmed our pets. We will miss her! Tim & Linda Bennett
Heather
August 24, 2012
Dr. Payne was an exceptional doctor and a lovely human being. My condolences to her family and friends.
Nicole Tozzi
August 24, 2012
My condolences to Patty's family and friends. She will be missed by many, and I am grateful for the care and advice she gave me for our cat.
The Baker-Schermerhorn Family
August 24, 2012
Many condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Payne. We hope that all who knew her well will find comfort during this difficult time.
We have definitely missed her smile and care for our critters.
We hope that Patty is resting in peace.
Cindy Liggett
August 24, 2012
Though saddened by the loss of my friend and co-worker, I know she is with us in spirit. She always had time to take on the life challenges of so many of my rescue kitties. Her gentle nature and determination to figure it out is why so many lived. I am so fortunate to have known her and will miss her greatly.
Patty Payne
August 24, 2012
I met Patty just 10 short years ago just before I married her brother, Richard. It was scary how we were alike in so many ways! She will be greatly missed, but sweetly remembered.
Peg Banks
August 24, 2012
Patty will be deeply missed for her warmth, her intelligence, and her passion for her work. She was a healer in every sense of the word, and leaves a tremendous legacy for her short time among us.
Jane Bedwell
August 24, 2012
My condolences to Patty's family and friends. She made the process of taking our aging cats to the vet less stressful and their ailments clearly understood. She helped us find treatments we could afford, rather than attempting to guilt us into profitable procedures we really couldn't. We will miss her!
Marti Butcher
August 24, 2012
Patty always had a smile for others, despite her own struggles or pain. I'm lucky to have known her in this life. She had a sharp wit and a smile that brightened your day.
Cindy Liggett
August 24, 2012
Patty was my friend, my co-worker and the vet to all my furry friends. Some of my kitties would not still be with me if not for her determination to figure out what was wrong. I shall and do miss her greatly.
August 24, 2012
Patty's parting leaves her many friends, co-workers and family with a huge void in our hearts. Her kindness to all, especially the furry ones, will be remembered forever.
Marion Dunn
August 24, 2012
Dr. P2 was always there if you needed a hug and a boost. Loved the training classes she made up for us soon to be techs, she was an awesome and patient teacher. I will miss her, but her kind spirit remains with us.
bill kennedy
August 24, 2012
may she continue to provide her care and love of all our 4 legged friend in heaven.
Annamaria Dicola and Owen Bauer
August 23, 2012
Friends are the family that you choose for your self. You have always been family to us and we have been so lucky to have you. Big Licks from the furry kids, Beans and Edison
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