Patricia Kay Ladnier

Patricia Kay Ladnier (née Victory), known to her friends and family as "Pat," passed away peacefully on February 4, 2026, at the age of 70. Born in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, on February 28, 1955, she was a longtime resident of Nashville, Tennessee.

Pat attended Overton High School and graduated from Antioch High School before attending Middle Tennessee State University, where she earned a degree in Early Childhood Education. While at MTSU, Pat was active in the Baptist Student Union, where she made lifelong friendships.

Following college, she dedicated her life and career to nurturing and inspiring children, first as a teacher and later as a beloved children's librarian at the Brentwood Public Library. Affectionately known to generations of families as "Miss Pat," she was a cherished presence at the library for over 30 years. She found immense joy in enriching children's lives through stories, creativity, and connection. Her twice-weekly story times, complete with crafts and laughter, became a treasured tradition for countless young children. She truly loved her work, and her warmth, patience, and gentle spirit left a lasting imprint on the community she served. Her impact was so profound that it was common for children who grew up attending Miss Pat's story times to later return with their own children.

Pat was a devoted wife to her husband, James "Jim" Ladnier, with whom she shared 47 wonderful years of marriage. She was also a loving mother to her son, William "Will" Ladnier.

Later in life, Pat embraced her most cherished role: grandmother. Her grandchildren, William "Liam" Ladnier and Jennings Ladnier, lovingly knew her as "Granna." She delighted in reading them stories, creating crafts, playing board games, and sharing adventures, especially trips to the zoo. Pat treasured her visits to Knoxville, where she proudly cheered them on at baseball games, gymnastics meets, and cheerleading competitions. Her love for Liam and Jennings was boundless and brought her immeasurable happiness.

Pat is survived by her husband, Jim; her son, Will (Julia), and grandchildren, Liam and Jennings; her brothers, Frank (Glenda) Victory and Keith (Callie) Victory; her sister, Sandy Victory; and many loving relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Willa Dean Victory.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 4:00 PM at Woodbine Funeral Home, Hickory Chapel, 5852 Nolensville Road, Nashville, Tennessee 37211. All who knew and loved Pat are invited to attend to celebrate her incredible life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Pat's memory to the Brentwood Public Library, where she devoted decades of service, or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a cause dear to her heart.