Our mother, Patricia (Pat) McJunkin, was peacefully called home on Saturday, December 5th, after an eight year struggle with dementia. She had a great sense of humor, contagious laughter, and a warm personality that brightened every room. A devoted mother, she was always involved in her children's activities; whether it be school, PTA, 4H, Girl Scouts, or sports. Mom was always on the sidelines, with her unconditional love, cheering us on.

A devout Christian; she attended The FourSquare Church until just last year. Her strong faith was evident in her love for community; she helped feed the homeless and taught Sunday school for many years. Her daily prayer and conversations with God, while walking the Uvas levy in the mornings, were the foundation of her faith.

Mom loved music. As a young mother, she carried a radio with her everywhere she went, always dancing and singing along. There was always piano music in the house, and she continued to play until just a few years ago. Music was always in our home whether it was Pavarotti, Bob Dylan, or music from the fabulous fifties. Mom loved music and would dance to anything.

Mom stayed at home, raising five children, for 16 years before she began her 40 year career at Gilroy Unified School District. She began working as a school secretary and returned to college at 50 to earn her teaching credential. Mom loved teaching and continued substituting for another 10 years after she retired. Her spark and contagious laughter made her classroom a marvelous place to learn.

Mom is survived by her five children and their spouses; Valerie (McJunkin) and Shannon Kelly, Alexis (McJunkin) and Jeff Wentzell, Stephanie McJunkin, John McJunkin, Quentin McJunkin; grandchildren Ryan Kelly, Dylan Kelly, Samantha Epstein, Quillan McJunkin; and great-grandchild Cole Kelly. She was preceded in death by her husband Al McJunkin, and her parents John and Doris Kallas. The family has held a private service, a Celebration of Life will be held when we can all gather and truly celebrate mom.