Patsy Pollard
Patsy Pollard was born on Sept. 2, 1929, in Guthrie to Quincy and Hallie Booth.
She grew up in Crescent where she graduated in 1947. She attended and graduated from Central State University in 1950 and later earned her master’s degree from Phillips University in 1977.
Patsy taught in the Hennessey Public School system for 13 years.
She married Russell Pollard on Aug. 12, 1950, in Crescent.
Russell and Patsy lived in rural areas and raised their family on the farm.
She leaves behind a legacy of love, determination and unwavering spirit.
She is survived by their six children, Barry Pollard and wife Roxanne of Waukomis, Brad Pollard and wife Lori of Crescent, Melinda Hobbs of Kingfisher, Shelly Sheffi eld and husband Stan of Gore, Sheila Duell and husband Fred of Hennessey and Bryan Pollard of Hennessey; 14 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren who will continue to honor her memory and her cherished orange pride. Patsy embraced a life rooted in hard work and dedication. Life on the farm was rewarding, but not always easy.
Together with Russell they raised wheat and cattle while raising six children, teaching school and always preparing three meals a day.
It was tough, but so was she.
Her strength and determination were a testament to her commitment to her family, her faith and her love of music.
Music brought joy to Patsy and those around her. She sang in the church choir for many years and played the piano with grace and passion, continuing to share her gift until just a couple of years ago.
Her music reflected her heart, a source of joy and celebration for family and friends alike.
Her faith was her guiding light and she made sure that church and faith were central to family life. She encouraged her children to live with purpose, grounded in the values of love and unity.
Patsy passed away on Nov. 19, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family.
She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and lifelong Oklahoma State University fan.
Patsy lived a life filled with pride and passion for her family and her beloved OSU Cowboys.
Patsy instilled the values of education, loyalty, hard work and perseverance in her family.
Her enthusiasm for Oklahoma State University was impressive.
She celebrated the achievements of her children, who collectively earned eight degrees from OSU and her grandchildren, who followed in their footsteps, earning an incredible 19 degrees. (And this doesn’t even include their spouses) Whenever she had the chance, Patsy could be found cheering on the Cowboys, attending football games, events and always donning her orange attire.
Her devotion to OSU was not just about sports, but reflected her belief in the power of education and community.
Services were held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23, at the First Christian Church in Hennessey. Burial followed at Hennessey Cemetery under the direction of Cordry- Gritz Funeral Home.
Donations can be made in her honor to Friends of the Hennessey Library or the charity of your choice.