Patricia Kelly Stokes

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Patricia Kelly Stokes, who died peacefully, surrounded by her family, and went to be with her Savior on March 11, 2026, at the age of 85. Born in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, on June 21, 1940, to Myrtle J. Kelly and Daniel B. Kelly, Patsy spent several years in North Carolina before moving with her family to Lake Wales. Across the street, a young man named Bobby Stokes would later marry the petite brunette on August 18, 1961.

Patsy attended Erskine University in Due West, South Carolina, and later graduated from Florida State University. She earned her Master’s from the University of South Florida and spent nearly 30 years in the school system as a teacher and guidance counselor. She was involved with the Junior League of Greater Lakeland, the Heritage Antique Club, Bok Tower Gardens, and was a faithful servant at First United Methodist Church. Patsy loved antiques and gardening, and she enjoyed being surrounded by her loved ones and friends. Visiting relatives in North and South Carolina was a particular joy.

Patsy was preceded in death by her mother, Myrtle J. Kelly, father, Daniel B. Kelly, and her loving husband, Robert Glenn Stokes, and nephew Marty Johnson. She is survived by her loving son Jeffrey (Kim Pleasants), daughter Jenny Kay, granddaughter Katherine Stokes, sister Alice Kelly, Bobby Johnson, niece Kelly Marie Johnson, nephew Brently Johnson, and cousin Kay Lanier.

A private family graveside service will be held on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Oak Hill Burial Park. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Good Shepherd Hospice of Polk County at 3470 Lakeland Hills Boulevard, Lakeland, Florida 33805, 863.682.0027 or 866.940.0962, or to First United Methodist Church’s Madison Youth Ranch at 51 Children’s Way, Enterprise, Florida 32725, 386.668.4774, residinghope.org/madison-youth-ranch.