Margaret Patricia “Pat” Murphy Persinger
Margaret Patricia “Pat” Murphy Persinger passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth, and unwavering devotion to her family, friends, and community.
Born on Aug. 31, 1931, at Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, Pat was the only child of Bess and Luther Murphy. From the very beginning, Pat radiated a joyful spirit and kind heart that would touch everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Pat spent her early years in the Druid Hills neighborhood of Atlanta, where she attended Druid Hills High School and was an active member of Druid Hills Presbyterian Church. Her upbringing was filled with a deep sense of faith, community, and strong family values—principles that would guide her throughout her life.
During her senior year of high school, her father, who worked as comptroller for the Chevrolet division of General Motors, was transferred to New York. Pat enrolled at North Tarrytown High School, where her sweet Southern accent and warm, friendly nature made her an instant standout. She was affectionately welcomed by her classmates—so much so that the boys named a basketball team “The Southern Belles” in her honor.
After graduating in 1948, Pat attended Wesleyan College for Women, where she earned a degree in psychology and speech in 1952. She was active in student government and took on numerous leadership roles, already demonstrating her natural gift for connecting with and uplifting others. Her time at Wesleyan was marked by lasting friendships and a deepening of her lifelong passion for helping others.
Following graduation, Pat moved to Chattanooga, and made her home on Lookout Mountain. She began working as a draftsman in the maps and surveys department at the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), serving as a cartographer who helped produce vital military maps during the Korean War. She took great pride in this important work and often spoke of it as a meaningful chapter in her life.
On Feb. 13, 1954, Pat married Joseph Samuael Persinger, Sr.at Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church. The couple’s early years were spent in New York City, Atlanta, and Charlotte before they returned to Lookout Mountain in 1957, where they would build a beautiful life together and raise their family. Their marriage of 58 years was a shining example of enduring love, mutual respect, and deep friendship.
Pat was a loving and dedicated mother to her three children, and she poured her heart into their lives and education. She was a constant presence at Fairyland Elementary, Lookout Mountain Elementary, the Baylor School, and Girls Preparatory School, volunteering in classrooms, planning events, and supporting every effort that benefited children and education. Her nurturing spirit extended well beyond her own family—she made every child feel special, heard, and supported.
An avid gardener and gifted organizer, Pat took leadership roles in many local garden clubs, including serving as president of the Chattanooga Junior League Garden Club, the Laurelwood Garden Club, and the Woodland Garden Club. She also served two terms as president of the Women of Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church, where her faith and dedication made a lasting impact.
Pat's love for people and her community was boundless. She served on several boards throughout the Chattanooga area, including the Girls Club of Chattanooga, the American Heart Association, Goodwill Industries, and the American Cancer Society. She also worked closely with Dr. Walter Boehm at the Birth Defect Center for Children, a cause especially close to her heart.
Pat was known for her warmhearted personality, easy laughter, and deep empathy. She built friendships that spanned decades, always remembering birthdays, writing thoughtful notes, and offering a shoulder to lean on. Her home was a place of comfort, her hospitality unmatched. Whether she was hosting a garden club meeting, preparing meals for friends, or simply enjoying some family time by the beach or pool, Pat made everyone feel welcome and loved.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Joe Persinger, and her parents, Bess and Luther Murphy.
She is survived by her three children: Joe (Leeann) Persinger of Denver, N.C.; Steve (Karen) Persinger of Lookout Mountain, Ga.; and Meg (Oscar) Brock of Lookout Mountain, Tn. She was “Mimi” to seven cherished grandchildren: Robert (Bridget) Persinger, Michael Persinger, Christopher (Annie) Persinger, Thomas (Stevie) Persinger, Joseph (Jessica) Persinger, Archer (Connie) Brock, and Eleanor Brock. She also leaves behind many great-grandchildren who brought her endless joy.
Pat's most loyal and loving companion in later years was her dog, “Lit’l Buddy,” who brought her immeasurable joy and comfort.
A visitation and graveside service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are being handled by Heritage Funeral Home of East Brainerd.
The family would like to express deep gratitude to the incredibly thoughtful, kind, and dedicated caregivers at Thrive at Brow Wood Assisted Living and Memory Care. Their compassion and support meant so much during Pat’s final chapter. Heartfelt thanks are also extended to Hearth Hospice of North Georgia and the team from Consolidated Staffing for the attentive care they provided in recent months.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Pat’s memory to Chambliss Children’s Shelter or the American Red Cross.
Visit the online obituary at www.heritagechattanooga.com to post tributes and share memories.
Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, East Brainerd Chapel.