In Loving Memory of

Patricia Ann Flynn Campbell

October 22, 1939 – April 5, 2025

Patricia Ann Flynn Campbell passed away peacefully on the evening of Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the age of 85. For over eleven years, she faced ovarian cancer with extraordinary courage, grace, and unwavering faith, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration to all who knew her.

Born on October 22, 1939, in Mitchell, South Dakota, Pat was the second of four children and the only daughter. She adored her three brothers and grew up in a loving, faith-filled home. Her mother was a teacher and librarian, and her father worked for the local newspaper, instilling in her both a love of learning and a strong work ethic. Raised in the United Methodist Church, Pat was active in church life throughout her youth, grounding her in a lifelong faith that shaped every aspect of her life.

As a child, Pat could be found playing sports with her brothers, challenging others to card games, and dancing joyfully at every school dance. She graduated from Mitchell High School in 1957 as a standout athlete in track and basketball, a cheerleader, and was proudly voted "Most Popular" and "Best Athlete" by her classmates. She went on to attend Dakota Wesleyan University, graduating in 1961 with a degree in Sociology. There, she remained deeply involved in campus life and was honored as Homecoming Queen.

After college, Pat moved to Southern California with friends and took a job at Pacific Bell phone company. One fateful day by the apartment pool, she met Ross Campbell, a Kansas City native who would soon become the love of her life. The two were married on November 22, 1963, and shared nearly sixty wonderful years together until Ross's passing in 2023.

The couple welcomed their first child, Wally, in 1966 and later moved to Metairie, Louisiana, where their daughter Kathy was born in 1970. They settled in Plano, Texas, in 1971, where they became devoted members of First United Methodist Church Plano—a spiritual home that remained central to Pat's life for 53 years.

While raising her children, Pat began working part-time at Palisades Day School in Plano. With her children by her side, she quickly became a beloved figure in the school community, eventually serving as director for 23 years. Later, she lovingly cared for her aging mother, who lived with Pat and Ross during her battle with dementia.

In her late fifties, after several years out of the workforce, Pat made a bold and inspiring return. With little prior experience in technology, she built a resume, taught herself new skills, and landed a position at the Collin County Appraisal District. She thrived there for 15 years, earning admiration for her determination, adaptability, and professionalism before retiring in 2012.

Pat's warmth, energy, and tireless work ethic touched countless lives. She poured her heart into every role she took on—whether as a den mother, assistant soccer coach, school carnival volunteer, or the baker behind lovingly homemade treats. Store-bought snacks were never her style—Pat insisted on crafting everything from scratch.

She was an avid reader, puzzle enthusiast, and a gifted baker known for her signature pumpkin bread. She was also known for card ministry which brought comfort and joy to so many. She had a servant's heart and lived her faith with quiet strength and joyful purpose. Known affectionately as "Mimi" to her grandchildren, Pat was a devoted wife, sister, mother, grandmother, friend, and follower of Christ.

One of her favorite Bible verses captures the joy she brought into the lives of others:

"This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." – Psalm 118:24

Pat was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ross Campbell; her parents, Melvin Flynn and Wilma Jenks Flynn; and her sisters-in-law Elaine Rankin, Eleanor Flynn, and Kris Flynn.

She is survived by her son Wally (Lara) Campbell of Denton, TX; her daughter Kathy (Nate) Severson of Dallas, TX; her grandchildren Hunter Severson and Elliott Severson; her brothers Doug Flynn of Ankeny, IA, Mick Flynn of Colorado Springs, CO, Tom (Kris) Flynn of Johnston, IA; and a wide circle of extended family and dear friends whose lives were made brighter by her presence.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, May 1 at 11:00 AM at First United Methodist Church Plano, 3160 E Spring Creek Pkwy, Plano, TX 75074. In honor of Pat's vibrant and joyful spirit, guests are encouraged to wear colorful, spring attire.

Livestream service will be available at fumcplano.org

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to First United Methodist Church Plano or the American Cancer Society—organizations close to Pat's heart.