Obituary published on Legacy.com by Lawson's Funeral Homes & Cremation Services - Jay on Apr. 3, 2026.
Patsy Marie Allen was born on January 30, 1959, in
Claremore, Oklahoma, to Aaron "Junior" Allen and Irene Cabbagehead Allen. She was raised in Spavinaw, where she proudly attended Spavinaw Schools as a member of the Spavinaw Aces, later graduating from Ketchum High School with the Class of 1977. Patsy went on to attend Northeastern State University before beginning a life of service through various jobs and active involvement in her community.
Patsy devoted many years to helping youth facing substance abuse challenges through her work at the Cherokee Nation's Jack Brown Adolescent Treatment Center. Her compassion and genuine care for others were evident not only in her profession, but in every part of her life. She was an active and dedicated member of her community, contributing her time to the Spavinaw Playground Association, Spavinaw School Board, Spavinaw Action Committees, and the Jack Ribbon Indian Cemetery Committee. Patsy also shared her love of mentoring by coaching T-ball and softball for many Spavinaw teams.
An avid sports fan, Patsy especially enjoyed playing softball. While she loved being on the field, she found even greater joy in cheering on her family and friends from the sidelines. She was known as her niece's and nephew's number one fan, always offering encouragement, support, and love.
Patsy had a kind and generous heart and was deeply loved by all who knew her. She touched countless lives with her unwavering kindness and unconditional love. Proud of her heritage, Patsy was full-blood Cherokee, raised in a family of Cherokee first-language speakers, and became fluent in the Cherokee language-carrying her identity with honor and remaining deeply connected to her culture throughout her life.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Aaron "Junior" and Irene Allen, and her baby sister, Lizzie Jane.
Patsy is survived by her sisters, Norma Garris of Spavinaw and Brenda Ballance and husband Leonard of Vinita. Patsy is also survived by nieces Kelsey Gill of Spavinaw, Leestie Allen of Tulsa, Kinnitha Garris of North Carolina, and Brooke Garris of Spavinaw; great-nephews Wyatt and Brody Moore, Ryder Jones, and Kamari White; and great-niece Leilani Garris, along with many extended family members and friends who will continue to cherish her memory.
Patsy Marie Allen will be remembered for her loving spirit, her devotion to family, and the lasting impact she made on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Patsy's Celebration of Life Family Visitation to greet friends will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 from 6:00-8:00pm at Lawson's Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, 311 W. Gray St.,
Jay, OK 74346.
Patsy's Celebration of Life Graveside Service will be held on Thursday, 2:00pm, April 9, 2026 at Ribbon Cemetery, 12863 E 421st.
Spavinaw, OK 74366 with Pastors Cullus Buck and Ron Goff officiating. Patsy's service will conclude at the cemetery.
Patsy's burial will be at Ribbon Cemetery, 12863 E 421st.,
Spavinaw, OK 74366
Arrangements are entrusted to Lawson's Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, 311 W. Gray St.,
Jay, OK 74346 with Shaunda J. Lawson, 3rd Generation Owner/Funeral Director and Staff.