In Loving Memory of Patricia Margaret Kelley

Born on December 6, 1947, to John and Julia Agnes Harrington Kelley, Patricia Margaret Kelley was raised in Golden, Colorado, alongside her brother and two sisters. Her sharp intellect and affinity for the written word were evident from a young age; for her twelfth birthday, her only request was a Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary—a cherished gift that foreshadowed a lifetime dedicated to the stewardship of language and knowledge.

A scholar at heart, Patricia built an impressive academic foundation. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Russian Studies from the University of Colorado, followed by a Master of Library Science (MLS) from the University of Maryland, and a Master of Arts in International Affairs from American.

Patricia spent her career as a respected leader in academic library services across the United States. Her professional journey included serving as an Assistant at American University and as the Head of Undergraduate Library Services at Northern Illinois University. She later served as the Assistant to the University Librarian at George Washington University, eventually culminating her distinguished career as the Dean of Libraries at Eastern Washington University. Her leadership and commitment to academic resources left an indelible mark on every institution she served.

While studying at the University of Maryland, Patricia discovered an inherited genetic kidney condition. With characteristic strength, she met this challenge head-on, eventually receiving a transplant. She spent the final 27 years of her life with a profound sense of gratitude, carefully tending to her "gifted kidney" that granted her nearly three decades of extra time to pursue her passions and cherish her loved ones.

Patricia is deeply missed by her longtime partner, Kirby Oak (US Air Force Lt. Colonel, Retired); her brother, John Kelley (Nancy); and her sisters, Michele Kelley Neuhauser (Michael) and Shiela Kelley Etheridge (Stanley). Her legacy also lives on through her three nephews, two nieces, and four grand-nieces and nephews.

In honor of Patricia’s life-long dedication to education and her journey as a transplant recipient, the family suggests that in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St Peter’s Catholic Church, 3520 E 18th Ave, Spokane WA 99223 on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 10:00am.