Patricia Ann Winningham Larson

May 9, 1943 - July 21, 2023

Patricia Ann Larsen was born to Shelby and Dorthy (Blanks) Winingham on May 9th, 1943, in Versailles Missouri. Pat received her wings and went home to her Savior on Friday July 21st, 2023, in Cozad Nebraska. 

Pat’s early years with her parents and siblings were spent living in and attending school in Versailles, Peru and Decatur. She graduated from Decatur, where she was a majorette, cheerleader and took part in plays. It was in Decatur that she met her handsome cowboy & husband, Lyle Larsen. They were high school sweethearts. The story of the first time they met was one she remembered fondly; as well as the memories of each dance they shared throughout their life together. They were united in marriage on October 29th, 1961, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Decatur. The couple made their home on the Larsen Farm west of Decatur, where together they brought into this life and raised five children; Lisa, Aleta, Lauree, Lyle and Brian.

When Pat’s children were young, the phrase “stay-at-home-mom” didn’t exist. It was usual for women to stay home with the children while their husbands worked. But even by the standards of the era, Pat was the classiest of ladies and an exceptional wife & mother. She cared deeply and was known for the love that she poured into her family. 

Pat was a “Saint” here on earth and it was in her patience, strength, perseverance, resilience & Faith throughout her life that she proved that to all of us. She always did the best she could with what she had. 

It was not only her family, but her friends too, that she poured her love into. Because of who she was, she was always one of the first to offer help to anyone. Pat was always happy to whip up great meals or a batch of cookies for anyone in need or when she & Lyle would have company. Anyone who knew Pat knows how good her cooking and baking was! From preparing meals for her large family, the hired hands on the farm, the customers at Hungry’s & the guests at the Larsen Arena, we’ve all been blessed to feel the love she put into all she did. Pat always ensured that every man, woman, and child who crossed her threshold was made to feel safe, heard, happy and loved. Pat adored her grandchildren & great grandchildren. She loved spending time with them; baking, reading, singing, painting & crafting. When she could, she would attend their sporting events, horse shows & graduations. As they aged, “Patty Ann” was the best at sending cards & keeping in touch via lengthy phone calls! She was always their biggest fan and always made sure they knew grandma’s love! 

Pat is survived by her children; Lisa (Todd) Maly of Lincoln, Aleta Jessen of Decatur, Lauree (Jeff) Heine of Lexington, Brian Larsen (Lisa Sampson) of California. 

Her grandchildren; Amanda McCarter (Ben Jensen) of Cozad, Samantha Pond of Cozad, Cheyanne Jessen of Ogden Utah, Mariah Jessen of Lincoln, Dylan Larsen of Blair, Derek Larsen & Evan Larsen of Omaha. Great Grandchildren; Dalton McCarter, Payton Pond, Hailey Jensen & Lani Shaw. As well as many other precious in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. 

Pat was welcomed to Heaven by her loving husband, Lyle. Her son Lyle Dennis Larsen II, her parents; Shelby & Dorthy, her siblings; Buck, Buzzy, Jo & Debbie, as well as many other loved ones. 

Honorary & Heavenly Bearers are all of Pat’s family, friends & loved ones whom she cherished throughout her life. 

~Thank you for loving her! 

Visitation and Reading of the Obituary will be held on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, from 5-7 p.m. at Reynolds-Love Funeral home in Lexington.

A Visitation and Reading of the Obituary will be held on Thursday, July 27, 2023, from 5-7 p.m. at Decatur City Auditorium in Decatur, Nebraska.

From 50th Anniversary booklet  May 29, 2011

Spouse:  Lyle Larsen

Children:  Lisa, 49; Aleta, 47; Lauree, 46; Lyle, 40; and Brian, 35.

Grandchildren:  (7)  Amanda, Samantha, Cheyanne, Mariha, Dylan, Derek and Evan

We married right out of high school and lived on the same place for almost fifty years.  We've had our ups and downs just like everyone else but are still hanging in there.  Ha!  I guess I would have to say the high lights of my life are my children and grandchildren.