She was born on May 29, 1922 in Fort Lewis, Wash., to John and Elizabeth (Polly) McGilvray
Patti’s father was an Army officer and they moved several times during her childhood. She had fond memories of her teenage years in New Jersey where she met her longtime friend, Virginia Blanchard who continued their friendship until her passing.
She moved to Hermiston with her father in the late 1960s to be near her cousin, Lewis McGilvray. In 1979, Patti met her best friends, Mary Ross, and Mary Corp over a cup of coffee. Their friendship bond grew and they had many adventures — camping, vacationing, coffee at the drugstore, trips to Florida to see Virginia, and many other simple times.
Patti had a childlike and joyful outlook on life. She was a true friend to many people — she treated us all as treasures. Patti attended New Hope Community Church in Hermiston. She loved her coffee, teddy bears, playing Old Maid and Go Fish, watching the Price is Right, and Shirley Temple movies. She loved vacationing – planning them, going and then remembering them.
She is survived by her adopted family including her mother, Vivian Corp; sisters, Mary Corp, Jean Corp; brothers, Wes Corp, Ray Corp, Amos Corp and Andy Corp. She also has a host of friends and caregivers across the community from Columbia Care Cottage, Beta House, and Good Samaritan Center whose friendships she treasured and who gave her joy and wonderful care.
Patti was preceded in death by her parents; cousins, Lewis and John McGilvray; and sisters, Mary Ross and Kathy Corp.
The family asks in lieu of flowers donations be made to The Arc of Umatilla County, 215 W. Orchard Ave., in Hermiston.
A graveside funeral service will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2015 at 2 p.m. at the Hermiston Cemetery.
Please sign the online guest book at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
