Patricia Ann Dow was born on September 25, 1947, in Brookhaven, Mississippi to John and Leona Allen Dow, both now deceased. She was blessed with two brothers, John Jr. and Kermit.

Pat graduated from Alexander High School in 1965 as the valedictorian and attended Michigan State University from 1965 to 1968 before transferring to Arkansas A.M.&N. College, earning a Bachelor of Science in biology and chemistry. She received her Master of Science degree in biochemistry at the University of Texas Medical Branch. Pat became a research associate studying and developing diagnostic tools for identifying abnormal hemoglobin and the AIDS/HIV virus. After 29 years in medical science research, she returned home.

Pat’s second career was so rewarding that she did long-term substituting and in-school math tutoring in Brookhaven Schools for 10 years. Having received numerous recognitions, she was most proud of Employee of the Month at University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston, TX, President’s Scholar in 1970, and Who’s Who in American Careers. She also was a team-author if a medical technology textbook and many scientific articles. Pat volunteered with many organizations throughout the Brookhaven community. She was a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and held several offices and chaired many committees within that organization. Pat was an active and involved member of St. James M.B. Church.

Pat entered eternal rest on June 27, 2024, at King’s Daughters Hospital.

Cherishing her memory are her two brothers, John Jr. (Gloria) of Los Angeles, CA, and Kermit (Jill) of Richardson, TX; two very special adopted siblings, Johnny Allen and Patricia Hunt of Brookhaven; five nieces and nephews, four great-nieces and a great-nephew, a host of other relatives, Delta Sigma Theta sisters, and friends including the St. James church family.

Funeral services celebrating her life will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 9, at St. James M.B. Church, 949 East Monticello St., with the Rev. Dr. Larry Jointer officiating.