Patricia Fecel Kirby

Patricia Fecel Kirby, age102 of Sewanee, passed away on July 14, 2025, at Sheltering Arms Assisted Living in Grundy County. She was born in Beaumont, Texas, on November 2, 1922, to the late George and Lena Fecel.

After graduating from Lamar Jr. College in 1941, she went on to work at the Social Security Administration. She and her husband, the late Pattee Kirby moved to Sewanee, TN in 1959. She was an Administrative Assistant to the Headmaster at St. Andrews School. In 1969 she earned her Bachelor of Science degree from MTSU. From 1970 to 1989 she operated Can-Tex Stables, which was a boarding/training facility for horses and offered equitation lessons for riders. After retiring from teaching riding, she became the PTO Librarian at Sewanee Elementary School until 1998. She was a dedicated Adult Basic Education teacher in the Franklin County School System for over 20 years. Pat was a distinguished educator who always loved learning herself. She went to Motlow at the age of 76 enrolling in classes because there was always something new to learn. Pat served as a member of the board at the Franklin County Library and was also a member, as well as a judge, of the Spotted Horse Association. She enjoyed gardening, horseback riding, reading, painting, and being at home. Pat will always be remembered for her kind, strong-willed personality, and as an amazing, remarkable lady. She was a member of the Episcopal Church.

In addition to her parents, Patricia is preceded in death by her husband, The Rev. Pattee Kirby; siblings, Dorothy Morgan, Elizabeth Allen, George Fecel Jr.; and niece, Barbara Ekblad. She is survived by her children, Karen (Ben) Vaughan, Peter (Lisa) Kirby; her grandchildren, John Shumard, Analee (Brian) Kluge, Abby (Andrew) Huggins, Ann (Gene) Dodge; and great-grandchildren, Abilene, Clementine, Beau, Crosby, Cooper, and Murphy. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

The family wishes to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the care-givers at Sheltering Arms for their kindness and dedication in providing comfort, love, and support to Pat.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Moore-Cortner Funeral Home, 300 First Ave NW, Winchester, TN, 37398, (931)-967-2222, www.moorecortner.com.