Mary Blanche Patterson's Obituary
Mary Blanche Patterson was born on October 30, 1951 to Maryon VanGilder and James Knox Patterson, in Dallas, Texas. Mary Blanche passed peacefully on Thursday, September 12, 2024 at Five Points Lake Highlands Nursing Home in Dallas, where she had been a resident for approximately 20 years. Mary Blanche was disabled by cerebral palsy at birth. While she was unable to walk or talk, she was a great communicator.
Mary Blanche had an outgoing and joyful nature that drew people in, and a laugh that came from deep within. She had no problem letting you know if she disapproved of something, and also making her opinion known if she approved. If she loved you, she left no doubt.
Mary Blanche was selected as the Easter Seals Poster Child 1957, and was proud to be a representative. Her grandmother, Lilas VanGilder, was a tireless advocate for accessibility for the disabled. Mary Blanche was able to travel with her grandparents in their VW minibus, and enjoyed camping in national parks, and seeing the world around her.
Mary Blanche was preceded in death by her mother Maryon VanGilder; grandparents, Harold and Lilas VanGilder; aunt, Sr. Mary VanGilder, IHM; aunt, Sharie and uncle “Bun” (Harold, Jr.) VanGilder; and brother-in-law, Jon McDonald.
Mary Blanche is survived by her sister, Lilas McDonald; her nephew Matthew McDonald; her niece Rachel McDonald; her loving “other mother” Aunt Blanche Hunt; her “little brother” cousin John Hunt, wife Ann, and children Katie, Kelly, Kerry, and John Jr.; dear aunt, Marianna and uncle, Jim VanGilder, Sr.; cousins and family of Debbie VanGilder Hovitz; Jim VanGilder, Jr.; Kurt, and Denise Ramsey.
Special thanks to the staff and caregivers at Five points Lake Highlands nursing home, who provided stellar care for Mary Blanche, and many of whom became her family. Also, the care and attention provided by her caregivers from Heart to Heart Hospice is so appreciated, contributing to her comfort and happiness in the past few months.
Memorial service Sunday, September 22, 2024 at Restland Cemetery, Wildwood Chapel
Visitation 9:30am, Service 10:30 am
Memorials to Easter Seals: www.easterseals.com or Cerebral Palsy Foundation: www.yourcpf.org
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