Patricia Hart (Smith) Walsh

In Loving Memory: Patricia Hart Smith

Patricia Hart Smith, “Patti”, age 68, a native of Athens, passed away peacefully in her sleep at home on December 9, 2023.

Ms. Smith was the daughter of the late Theodore Edward Smith, Jr. “Buck” and Mary Freeman Smith “Tubby”.  She is preceded in death by her brother George B. Smith “Skipper.”

She was a devoted family member, a cherished friend and a talented artist. Patti spent many years as a hair dresser, realtor, then received her associates degree in Paralegal Studies and Graphic Design from Athens Technical College. In most recent years, she lived out her lifelong dream of being an artist by creating her beloved ‘Patti Pots’ and ‘Patti Caps’.  She was a former board member for Project Safe.

Patti touched the lives of many with her vibrant spirit, her love of life, and steadfast love. As an artist, Patti had a unique ability to showcase her talent in the beauty of painting flower pots, watering cans and vintage hub cabs. Her Patti Pots were a reflection of her soul, filled with vibrant colors and intricate details. One of her most recent projects was painting a Veterans Wall at the Suncatcher Café in Watkinsville.  Through her art, she brought joy and inspiration to all who had the privilege of experiencing her work. Her art will be cherished by many for years to come.

But it was not just her artistic talent that made Patti special. She had a heart of gold and a genuine love for people. Her circle of friends was vast, and she cherished each and every one of them. Patti had a way of making everyone feel seen and valued, and her presence lit up any room she entered. She never met a stranger and she quickly turned strangers into friends and friends into family.  She valued her friendships.

Above all, Patti was a devoted family member. She always said her greatest accomplishment was being the mother to Evan Burch Walsh.   She treasured her time spent with her two granddaughters, Gemma Kate and Maisy, who affectionately called her Patti Cakes.  She created countless memories with them as they spent hours at local parks enjoying their time together every Tuesday.   Patti always made sure her son and granddaughters felt loved and supported.

One of Patti's greatest joys in life was dancing- at concerts, under the moonlight on the beaches of her beloved Beaufort, at parties- just about anywhere. She loved all kinds of music, but her favorite music artist was her pretend best friend, Bonnie Raitt whom she had seen multiple times in concert.

Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we find solace in knowing that Patti’s spirit will forever live on in the memories we shared with her. Her love, laughter, and artistic legacy will continue to inspire us all.

Survivors include son, Evan Burch Walsh, granddaughters, Gemma Kate and Maisy Caroline of Watkinsville; sister Lynn Smith Balch of Jefferson, GA; sister-in-law, Catherine Smith of Signal Mountain, TN; nephew Craig Smith and his daughters, Maddie and Lily of Winston-Salem; nieces Elizabeth Smith Williams (Jeff) and their son, Zachary of Acworth; and Patricia Gilbert Massey (Jon) and their daughters Kate and Lauren of Commerce.

Arrangements for Patti are: Visitation- Wednesday, December 13, 2023 from 10:00-12:00 at Lord and Stephens Funeral Home located at 1211 Jimmy Daniel Road, Watkinsville.  Immediately following visitation, a graveside service will be held at Oconee Hill Cemetery. Flowers or a donation to your favorite non-profit in Patti’s memory will be welcomed.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, West, is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com