Patricia Martin

Patricia "Pat" Steel Martin, passed away on May 2, 2024, at the age of 81. She was born on May 8, 1942, in Abilene, TX, and had most recently resided in Frisco, TX. A celebration of life well lived will be held on Monday, May 13th at 1pm at Elmwood Funeral Home and Memorial Park in Abilene, TX.

After graduating from Abilene High School in 1960, Pat went on to attend McMurry University. During her career, she worked at various schools in the Abilene Independent School District, including Fannin Elementary, before retiring while at Cooper High School.

But Pat, or "Granny P's" proudest accomplishment was undoubtedly raising her beautiful family. On June 1, 1973 in Bryan, TX, Pat married her devoted husband, Eldon Martin. Over their 50 years of marriage, they created a loving and nurturing home for their children and built a lifetime of cherished memories. She found her greatest joy in spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. To her, family and friends were everything, and she cherished every moment laughing and simply being near them. She spoke of them with love and adoration, never missing an opportunity to share stories and memories.

During the majority of her life, she has been a pillar of strength, bravely fighting breast cancer like no other and inspiring those around her with her unwavering spirit. A battle she has now won, as she rejoices in heaven with Jesus and so many loved ones who were waiting to meet her there.

She is survived by her daughters Lori Steen and husband Bill of Frisco, Tx, Kristi Russell of Lubbock, TX and Melinda Klotz and husband Jason of Frisco, TX. Her grandchildren Brogan and Samantha Funderburg, Britin Funderburg, Tray Hare, Brent and Layla Hare, and Phoebe, Parker, and Preslie Toombs. Pat was also blessed with great-grandchildren Ryann Monrreal, Carrson Martin, Robi Funderburg, and Lyla and Remi Funderburg, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Lois and Vernon B. Cox and Mitt Steel, her sisters Charlotte Dowell, Hazel Greeson, and Billie Phipps, her son-in-law Billy Russell, and her grandson Brandon Martin, whom she adored.

Pat's vibrant personality and genuine love for others left an indelible impact on those fortunate enough to know her. She had a witty sense of humor, and was beautiful, always ensuring her hair was perfect and her makeup immaculate. Her infectious personality left everyone she encountered with a smile on their face and a heart full of warmth.

Pat's faith was an integral part of her life; she attended Wylie Baptist Church in Abilene and Hope Fellowship in Frisco.

Her absence will be deeply felt by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. Pat will be remembered as a loving wife, mom, granny, and great-granny who made everyone feel loved and cherished. May she rest in peace, forever in our hearts.