A DEATH
HAS OCCURRED
october 11, 1952 – november 18, 2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Patricia Ann (nee Strother) Root. Born on October 11, 1952, in El Dorado, AR, Pati peacefully departed from this world on November 18, 2024. Throughout her life, Pati was known for her love of family and friends, cherishing moments spent with her grandchildren above all else.
Pati excelled as a Sales Trainer in the Sales industry. She shared her knowledge and expertise at MCI and Sprint, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege to work with her. But beyond her professional achievements, Pati had a passion for music, playing the piano, singing, and composing songs. Her creativity extended to her love for books, where she found solace in the pages of countless novels.
Pati was a vibrant soul, finding joy in visiting casinos, watching movies, and engaging in lively conversations with those around her. Her warm demeanor, coupled with her ability to listen attentively, endeared her to many. She had a big heart that she shared generously, leaving a mark through her kindness and love.
Pati is survived by her daughter Kim (Scott) Gildea, son Kevin (Holly) Gerth, son Joseph (Marta) Gerth, daughter Katie (Ben) Lauer, step-daughters, Kimberly Root, and Stephanie (Tim) Hill, grandchildren Chelsey, Cody, Austin, Courtney, Mason, Caitlin, Chloe, Teagan, Russell, Zachary, Vanessa, Jack, Henry, and Brooke, her brother Max (Susan) Strother, and sister-in-laws Rhoda Strother, and Peggy (Gary) Donaworth, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Terry Root, parents, James and Helen (nee Smith) Strother, and brother, Richard Strother.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Lifeline of Ohio, 770 Kinnear Road, Columbus, OH 43212 ATTN: Contributions. You will include a message “In Memory of Pati Root.”
A Celebration of Life will take place on Monday, November 25, 2024 from 12:30-2:30pm at The Arlington Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 2155 Compton Road, Cincinnati, OH 45231 (Follow the BLUE Line). A Graveside Service will be held at Arlington Memorial Gardens, 2145 Compton Road, Cincinnati, OH 45231 at 2:30 pm.
Monday, November 25, 2024 from 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
The Arlington Memorial Gardens Funeral Home
Monday, November 25, 2024 at 2:30 PM
The Arlington Memorial Gardens
“Pati Root is one of those people we’ll never forget. She is special in many ways, but one in particular stands out with us. Sure, she is pretty, smart, funny, among others. But the one that stands out with us is the way she ended a conversation. We would be telling stories about each other and then she pulled it. Just when I thought I told her a unique or funny story she would say something like” it must time for you to go.” Or, you told me this one last week. Or she would turn to Barb and say, he likes to name-drop, doesn’t he? Some times she would just say I’m tired (she didn’t have to say “of you”). In any case, we knew when to take off and not let the door hit us in the … We also know we are two of the more fortunate people around.”
11/23/2024
“We became friends with Pati at our coffee hour at the Maples. We met her when she was in the process of getting her lung transplants. I don’t think there are enough adjectives to describe Pati. She was fun, lively, thoughtful, smart and so enjoyable to be around. She never complained about feeling bad or any of the treatments she had to do. Pati never gave up fighting, to be healthy, for her family that she cared about so much. She will truly be missed. Pati was a fantastic lady.”
11/21/2024
“Pati will be missed in so many ways. Through the many years of friendship with her she has taught me to ALWAYS look for the positive in life, to live life with no regrets and to laugh. We definitely had a bond like sisters. She may be gone on this earth but will forever be with me in spirit. Love you to bits ❤️”
11/21/2024
“We became friends with Pati during coffee hour at The Maples. I wish I knew enough adjectives to describe her. Pati was friendly, positive, lively and so fun to be with. She was in the process of trying to get new lungs when we met her. She fought so hard for life and never complained about her health. Her family was so important to her and she wanted as much time as possible to be with them. The coffee hour will never be the same without her. What a fantastic lady.”
11/21/2024
“To my dearest peanut butter, meeting you was the most amazing thing that ever has happened to me, over these past few years you have always been with me and guided and listened to all my problems. We live in two different countries but never stopped us from talking almost every day. You are the strongest lady I have ever known, you courage and strength can’t be matched. I love you deeply my friend. Thank you for all your silly conversations and always telling me you loved me. You hold a special place in my heart that can never be replaced. I wish I had the chance to see your face and tell you how much I adored you. Till we meet again my anna cha cha cha my big fish bestie my peanut butter. I’ll love you always”
11/20/2024
“I met sweet Pati during my lung transplant in 2016, and we became fast friends. She and my daughter also bonded during that time, Pati gave her so much love, help, and support that it was a blessing. May you rest in peace my lung sister and my condolences to your loved ones. With Love, Tammy Robinson”
11/20/2024
“I hired Pati at Sprint and we became fast friends. She was a great person and a positive influence on everyone that worked with her. She had a wonderful sense of humor and made learning fun at work. She will be missed. RIP Pati. Love, Karen Fischer”
11/20/2024
“May heart is broken to hear the passing of my dear friend. She was a lovely person. My prayers are with her family. With deepest sympathy, Dr H. Jean McEntire, Pastor, Word Alive Christian Fellowship”
11/20/2024
“Pati was always full of life and looking toward the next challenge. She encouraged others and led by example. She was also courageous and determined. She looked around and saw where something she could write or do might bring a little light into someone’s life. She will be missed.”
11/20/2024
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