Beloved mother and friend passed away early Monday, Jan. 21, 2013. Born in Van Nuys, Calif., to Jacob Oliver Moxness and Delia Dorothy O’Neil in August 1934, Patsy was the older sister to one brother, Nels Michael Moxness, whom she loved with all her heart.
Patsy lived her life to fullest. Her motto was “Life is not a dress rehearsal” and reminded you of this often.
Patsy spoke of her childhood with great affection and love. Upon graduation from high school, she attended College of the Pacific in Stockton, Calif., where she earned her degree in Home Economics, obtained her teaching credentials and met her future husband, William Graziani.
Patsy and Bill were married in 1958, and in 1964, they moved to Carpinteria, Calif. They were soon blessed with a daughter, Melinda Catherine in 1965, then three years later with a son, James Douglas.
That same year they completed construction of the family home above the Rincon where Patsy lived for the rest of her life. Second only to her children, her house was her pride and joy and she shared it with everyone.
Patsy raised her children the way she was raised – with love, under-standing and instilling a quest for knowledge and adventure.
Singing and music were a huge part of Patsy’s life and she cherished her singing days with the Santa Barbara Sweet Adelines. She also sang with the Santa Barbara City College Chorus and traveled with them to London, Italy, Australia, China and Ireland – the perfect mix of music and travel.
Patsy was a staunch supporter of all things Carpinteria. She was a longtime active member of California Women for Agriculture and so loved the ladies that worked so tirelessly to promote and advocate the agriculture business there.
With her daughter, Melinda and her husband, Peter involved so deeply with the Plaza Playhouse Theater, Patsy was a one-woman promotion committee and made sure her friends knew what was playing.
Patsy cherished her family. She adored her children and son-in-law, Peter and made very sure everyone knew how proud she was of all of them. Her loving family will always be grateful for the care, wisdom, fun, and love she provided them.
A great example to us all, Patsy’s smile, wit and kindness will be deeply missed. Her guidance, support and love will always be cherished by those of us who were so fortunate to know her.
Patsy is survived by her two children, Melinda Bie (Peter) and Doug Graziani of Carpinteria.
A celebration of this wonderful lady’s life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 9, 2013, at the Carpinteria Community Church, followed by a reception at the family home.
Donations in Patsy’s name may be made to the Carpinteria Chapter of California Women for Agriculture; the Plaza Playhouse Theater; or the charity/cause of your choice.
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