Patricia Ann Thompson Royal

Patricia Ann Thompson Royal, 93, of East Brainerd, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025 surrounded by the love of her family.

A woman of deep devotion, remarkable talent, and quiet strength, Patricia lived a life filled with grace and creativity.

She was the beloved wife of the late Dr. James Richard Royal, a respected physician in the community, with whom she shared 54 years of devoted marriage until his passing in 2008. She was also preceded in death by a son, Kenneth L. Royal; and a daughter, Shirley L. Malone, whose memories remained ever close to her heart; and her sister, Ralphine Box.

Patricia was the proud mother of five children – three sons and two daughters- whom she raised with gentleness, wisdom, and steadfast love.

She is survived by two sons, Dr. John R. ( Naomi) Royal, and Willam A. Royal; daughter, Beth (Richard) Nayson; sister, Phyllis (Larry) McCalop; brother, Jimmy (Katherine) Thompson; her legacy lives on through her nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, each a testament to the strength she carried through every chapter of life.

After earning her bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Tennessee in Memphis,, Patricia worked briefly in the healthcare industry before dedicating herself fully to her growing family.

Once her children were grown, she embraced new chapters with joy- traveling abroad, cultivating her many artistic talents, and celebrating the fulness of life with grace.

A gifted artisan, Patricia was an exceptional quilter and seamstress. She brought beauty into the world through her painting, needlepoint, jewelry making, and culinary gifts. She was known by her family as an extraordinary cook.

She was also an accomplished dulcimer player, and her music brought joy to many. She was a member of the Dulcimer and Accompaniment Association.

Patricia was a devoted member at Wesleyan Memorial United Methodist Church where she was a leader in her Sunday school class. Her faith and church fellowship brought her great joy and community over the years.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her. Her wife was a beautiful patchwork of love, resilience, artistry, and quite devotion – a legacy hat will continue to ripple through generations.

A graveside service was held on Tuesday, July 22, at the Chattanooga National Cemetery.

You may share condolences with the family at www.heritagechattanooga.com

Arrangements were by Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 E. Brainerd Road.