Patricia A. Rhoton, age 71 of South Bend, passed away Monday, May 28, 2012 in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her family. Patricia was born November 3, 1940 to the late Joseph and Natalie (Lymongrover) Runnells in Mishawaka, Indiana. She was preceded in death by her first husband, SP5 Larry L. Leslie Sr. in 1961. On July 4, 1964, Patricia married James E. Rhoton. They spent 35 years together before James'' passing in 2011.
Surviving are her children, James (Ann) Rhoton of South Bend, Penny Leslie of Mishawaka, Larry (Michelle) Leslie Jr. of Nappanee, and Mark (Janet) Rhoton of Decatur, Michigan. Patricia is also survived by 16 grandchildren; Carrie, Jeremy, Stephanie, James, Brandan, Larry III, Justin, Nathan, Aaron, David, Joshua, Katelynn, Esther, Victoria, Janet and Andrea as well as 13 great-grandchildren; Jordan, Taylor, Zachary, Addison, Blake, Matthew, Tony, Brady, Journey, Ava, Justin Jr., Emmett, and Trevor. Her sister, Barb Heintz of New Albany, Indiana survives as well. Patricia was preceded in death by her brother Joe, her sister Janet, and her granddaughter, Danyelle.
There will be one hour of calling prior to the 2:00 pm funeral service on Friday, June 1, 2012 at Chapel Hill Funeral Home in Osceola. Interment will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Osceola.
Patricia was recently retired from K-Mart in Mishawaka after 35 years of service. She was also a licensed cosmetologist and hairstylist for many years. She had a strong love of family, and enjoyed their company more than most. Patricia also collected Coca-Cola and pig memorabilia. She also loved to be outdoors, especially during the summer.
In her memory, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the American Diabetes Foundation. "For ease and simplicity in ordering sympathy floral arrangements online, from the comfort and convenience of your home or office, please visit our website at www.memorygardensfloral.com. Numerous photographs for you to browse and a price range for every budget. This is a local floral ordering service and is under the complete direction and supervision of the staff at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home."