Flowers may be sent to Vondel L. Smith Mortuary – South Lakes. Donations may be made to OU Hospital – Stephenson Cancer Center.
Patsy "Pat" Kelso, 88, of Oklahoma City, passed away at her home on Friday, October 1st, 2021. She was born October 20, 1932 in Oklahoma City to Clarence & Ruby Hile. Pat was raised in the Capitol Hill area in South Oklahoma City along with her sister Barbara. Pat was very intelligent and excelled academically. She graduated from Capitol Hill High School when she was only 16 years old. After graduation she volunteered as a Gray Lady with the American Red Cross prior to getting married and deploying with her husband to France.
Pat was blessed with 5 Children, Debbie, David, Leslie, Patti and Scott (Bubba). She was a great mother and loved her children dearly. As a single mother for several years, she worked hard to provide for her children and to make sure their needs were met. In the early 1970's she founded Canterbury Schools Inc., which was the first multi-location childcare company in the Oklahoma City metro area. She later sold the company due to a near fatal health issue and began a new career in the mortgage banking industry. Later in her life she volunteered at Baptist hospital and worked with Visiting Angels as a caregiver/companion. Many of her clients were younger than her and she enjoyed being there for them in their time of need. Over the years, during various careers and volunteering activities, she made countless friends and many wonderful memories.
Pat gathered frequently with fellow capitol hill graduates, meeting for dinner at Grill on the Hill and other local restaurants. She loved to socialize and reminisce with them about their past experiences together.
Pat had many hobbies including gardening, cooking, bowling and sewing. She was a member of the neighborhood gardening club and participated in bowling leagues for several years. Food was a huge part of her life and she loved to share recipes and cook for friends and family.
Pat was a long-time member at Southern Hills Baptist Church. She was active in her Sunday School class and coordinated the church funeral meal program for many years. Her Southern Hills church family helped to bring joy to her life in later years and the friendships she made through the church were some of the most meaningful.
Pat, known to her family and many friends as Nonnie, loved her family and hosted many holiday gatherings at her home. She was the matriarch and anchor who maintained family traditions and kept everyone together. In 2016 she took on the responsibility of raising a then 4-year-old grandson, Mason. They were inseparable and he became a major part of her life. He was "adopted" by her Sunday school class members and senior social group and he had many special grandmothers looking out for him. The foundation she gave him is priceless and her selflessness will always be remembered and greatly appreciated.
Pat will always be remembered for her beauty, grace, caring and kindness. She was a strong and confident woman who lit up a room with her sparkling eyes and beautiful smile. Although she is no longer here on this earth, she will never be forgotten.
Pat was preceded in death by her father, Clarence, mother Ruby, and son, Charles Scott Mooneyham (Bubba). She is survived by her daughter, Debbie Bristol, son, David Bristol and wife Cheryl, daughter, Leslie Bristol, daughter, Patti Anderson, 9 Grandchildren, 17 Great-grandchildren, numerous extended family and countless friends.