Patricia Marie Martin

Patricia Marie Martin

May 22, 1945 – October 13, 2024

Patricia Marie Peterson (Martin) (known as Pat by most, Pete in her early years, and Patsy to select few) passed away in Knoxville, TN on Sunday, October 13, 2024, surrounded in love by her family.

Like her dad, Pat had a special gift of making everyone feel loved and understood. Her career as a nurse exemplified these traits but her life as a homemaker and “mom” to all is how she will be forever remembered. Her style was impeccable, her nails long but never as long as the conversations she had with anybody who had the pleasure of being in her company. Never was there a person who enjoyed laughter, conversation, and adventure as much as her.

Pat was born on May 22, 1945, in Anaconda, Montana. She graduated from Central High School in 1963 and moved to Seattle to pursue a career in nursing. It was working at the hospital there that she met her friend and mentor Sister Mary Margaret. From Seattle, Pat moved to Los Angeles where she would meet her future husband, Robert “Pete” Martin. Fate seemed to have a hand in their relationship because they realized Pat’s mentor in Seattle was the sister of Pat’s future mother-in-law! Pat and Pete married on February 26, 1966.

1972 found the couple back in Pat’s hometown where they happily raised their five children: John, Jim, Julie (Martin-Warnick), Jennifer (Kim), and Jolynn (Coleman). Another adventure called in 1986 and they were off to fabulous Las Vegas! Even when Pat wasn’t a nurse by title her soul called to care for others. While in Vegas, she cared for countless people of every age, all of whom became her family.

In 2004 Pat realized Pete needed a relaxing retirement. Their love for traveling helped make the decision to move to their favorite state of Tennessee an easy one and they made the beautiful Smoky Mountains their home. Pat continued to embrace her surroundings and welcomed all with acceptance and understanding. She taught her children, grandchildren (13), and great-grandchildren (15) empathy, unconditional love, and grace.

Pat is preceded in death by her husband Pete, parents Pete and Enie Peterson, brothers Jimmy and Eddie, sister and brother-in-law Kay and Marty Heaney, great-grandson Brody, and best friend Carol.

Pat was the embodiment of pure love, kindness, and selflessness. She was a mom and grandma to everyone and her passing will leave an unfillable hole in the hearts of those who knew her.

Good night, God bless, sweet dreams, we love you more!

View her obituary online at https://neptunesociety.com/obituaries/knoxville-tn/patricia-martin-12026032.