Patricia "Patty" Joanne Lee passed away peacefully on November 14, 2024, in Oklahoma City. Patty was born on October 15, 1959, in Owatonna, Minnesota, to William and Ethel Schraad. She was the firstborn of five siblings in a lively, bustling home. With a spirit as vibrant as the stories she loved to tell, Patty brought joy, laughter, and insight into the lives of countless people.

Patty was more than just her roles—an educator, mother, sister, friend, and storyteller—she was an experience. She brought her boundless love and nurturing energy to her family, raising her beloved daughter Katie and cherished son Steven. Patty's greatest joys were her granddaughters, Laurel, and Leighton, who affectionately knew her as "Lollee." This name was a testament to the playful, loving, and fun spirit she brought to every interaction with them. She relished the moments spent reading to them, watching their adventures, and sharing laughter that only a "Lollee" could inspire.
Patty's passion for teaching was unmatched. She didn't just educate, she inspired, mentored, and formed lasting bonds with her students. She loved shaping young minds, instilling in them a love for literature, writing, and critical thinking. Patty's dedication extended beyond the classroom as she served as an advisor for the student council and student leaders. Guiding students in leadership roles brought her immense joy. Teaching was not just her career; it was her calling, a source of deep fulfillment, and a testament to her generous and curious spirit.

Patty's love of books was an extension of her teaching. She delighted in getting lost in stories and sharing that joy with others. Beyond the classroom, her garden was another reflection of her nurturing soul; she tended to her plants with the same care and dedication she showed to the people she loved, finding peace and joy in the colors and life that surrounded her home.

Whether recounting tales from her adventurous childhood (like the infamous incident involving a horse and a swimming pool), celebrating life's small moments, or nurturing her students, garden, and grandchildren, Patty's life was a tapestry woven with stories, laughter, and deep affection.

Patty leaves behind her beloved children, Katie, and Steven; her granddaughters, Laurel, and Leighton; daughter-in-law Haley; and countless students, friends, and admirers who carry pieces of her stories within them.
A memorial service to celebrate Patty's life will be held at the Jerome Westheimer Center for the Performing Arts at 1:00 pm on Thursday November 21, 2024, followed by a Catholic Funeral Mass at St. Mary's Catholic Church at 10:00 am on Friday November 22, 2024. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Patty Lee Memorial Fund, (www.gofundme.com/f/celebrate-patty-lees-legacy-of-joy-and-teaching) honoring Patty's legacy of education, leadership, and nurturing young minds.

To honor Patty, remember that life is best lived when told like a great story—full of heart, a little bit of embellishment, and a lot of laughter.