Patsy Ruth Greynolds Cooke Gibson

1929 - 2025

Patsy Ruth Greynolds Cooke Gibson

December 17, 1929 - March 5, 2025

Lexington, Kentucky - Patsy Ruth Greynolds Cooke Gibson died peacefully on March 5, 2025, in Lexington, KY. The esteemed teacher, wonderful cook and hostess, and generous friend was 95.

Patsy was the first child born to Minnie Hoskins and A.L. Greynolds, arriving in Loyall, KY, in December 1929. She was predeceased by her parents, her stepfather Don Stafford; her brothers, William A. Greynolds, Lexington, KY; and Chester A. Greynolds, Georgetown, KY; and son-in-law Woodson Emmons, Meridian, MS. She is survived by her sister-in-law Margaret Greynolds, Georgetown, KY; and her children and grandchildren.

With husband John Cooke, she had two children, John Cooke, M.D., Montclair, NJ, and Pace Cooke Emmons (Andy Mead), Lexington, KY. In 1978, Patsy married Robert (Bob) Gibson and welcomed his sons Jeff Gibson (Laura) and Lee Gibson to the family. Patsy's granddaughters are Anne-Claire Gibson (Lexington); Robin Emmons, Lexington; and Eve Cooke, St. Petersburg, FL. The most recent additions to Patsy's family are Andy Mead's children, Ben Mead (Claire Ballard), Phoenix, AZ; and Julia Mead (Alex Nowak), Washington, DC.

Patsy graduated magna cum laude from Georgetown College, with a major in Biology. She was the only woman on the debate team, a varsity cheerleader and Kappa Delta sorority member.

Following the end of her marriage to John Cooke, Patsy earned a Master of Education in Counseling at Georgetown College and completed additional graduate studies at Eastern Kentucky University, culminating in a Rank 1 certification. She taught English and biology at Franklin County High School for 20 years, retiring in 1991.

Patsy was adventurous throughout her life, from her time clambering around the mountains of Harlan County through her hikes on Diamond Head volcano (Oahu, HI). Orthopedic problems limited her activities in later life, but she retained her quick wit, curiosity, interest in others and the world. Her friendships were enriched by her generous spirit, intuition, curiosity, creativity and practical nature. She exemplified life-long learning and modeled tolerance, acceptance and a giving spirit.

The family appreciates the compassionate care Patsy received at Legacy Reserve at Fritz Farm, Willows at Fritz Farm, and from her caregivers, Brenda Edrington, Brenda Florian, Cathy Flenner and Tiphani Frederick.

Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. March 28, 2025, in the sanctuary at the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, 533 East Main Street, Lexington, KY, followed by a memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, gifts are requested to the Church of the Good Shepherd, 533 East Main Street, Lexington, KY 40509; Floracliff Nature Sanctuary, PO Box 21723, Lexington, KY 40522 mightycause.com/organization/Floracliff; or a charity of your choice. Messages may be sent to pacemail02@gmail.com.