James Paschal Ormsby

James Paschall “Pat” Ormsby was born January 18, 1931, in Young County, Texas to the late Missouri Virginia (Ledbetter) and Clifton David Ormsby, and died at his home on January 24, 2026, in Ponca City, Oklahoma.

Pat grew up in Elbert, Texas and attended Throckmorton High School. After leaving school at the age of 16, he went to work for National Geophysics Company where he learned the seismograph trade. In 1951 he was drafted by the Marines and was stationed at Camp Pendleton, San Diego, California. After his discharge from the service, he returned home and went back to work in the oilfield. In the late 1950’s he bought a gas station in Lamesa, Texas and operated it until 1962. After closing the station, he once again went to work for another oil company, Conoco, where he worked until he retired in 1987.

When Pat owned his gas station, he rented U-hauls, work on cars and would move trailers with his “Old Blue” truck. After selling the station he kept “Old Blue” and would move our trailer house many miles until we had to move to California. He would often move our trailer then help his fellow workers move, always wanting to help whoever needed it. He was totally devoted to whatever he worked on, he could work from sunup to sundown and all night if that’s what it took. Pat’s commitment to support his family was never questioned, he always provided a warm safe home and always supported his kids and grandkids in all their activities.

On March 12, 1954, Pat married the love of his life Pauline Ray, and together they would move nearly 50 times, and live in 5 states. They were the perfect opposite to balance what the other may have lacked. Last March was their 71 anniversary. Pat didn’t have many hobbies but loved Square Dancing. Pauline would sew all of their matching outfits. Pat and Pauline would square dance together until they were no longer capable of participating.

In 1995, Pat and Pauline moved to Ponca City, Oklahoma to retire and live out the rest of their days.

Survivors include his wife of 71 years, Pauline Ormsby, daughter and son-in-law, Theresa” Teri” and Larry Dester of Dallas, Texas; daughter Kathy Deitas of Ponca City, Oklahoma; son and daughter-in-law David and Kathy Ormsby of Lufkin, Texas. Eight grandchildren and spouses; Caren and Jay Kreusch; Robin and Davy Sloat; Stephanie Council; Sara and Ryan Nash; Alaina Fortenberry; Drew and Kim Ormsby; Bradley and Lindsey Council; Letticia Deitas. And 19 great grandchildren. Several nieces and nephews.

Pat was preceded in death by his parents; and brother and sister-in-law, Edward David and Renea Ormsby, and great grandson James Bradley Kreusch.

Pallbearers are Drew Ormsby, Bradley Council, Jay Kreusch, Chris Kiser, Cameron Kiser, and Jack Kreusch.

Visitation will be Friday, February 6, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at Grace Memorial Chapel in Ponca City, Oklahoma. Funeral services will be 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at First Baptist Church in Ponca City followed by interment at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery.