Patty Newkirk

Patty Lou (Melton) Newkirk, 85, of Muncie, gained her heavenly wings on Thursday, December 17, 2020, at I.U. Health Ball Memorial. Patty was born Sunday, May 19, 1935, in Muncie, Indiana, to William J. and Ethel G. (Teverbaugh) Melton. She married Jack Newkirk on April 11, 1959, and they raised four children together. Patty was a Cub Scout leader, Girl Scout Cookie Chair, Bearcat Band Booster, and Elementary Room Mother. She enjoyed bowling, gardening and loved her flowers. Patty enjoyed going to the river, and was a great cook. She was best at old-fashioned cream pies, chip dip, turkey spread, and gravies. She had a special relationship with her granddaughter, Taryn. Patty attended Friends Memorial Church in Muncie. She worked as a secretary for the Head of the Department of Elementary Education at Ball State University for many years before retiring in 1997. Patty is survived by her husband, Jack Newkirk; children, David (Colleen) Newkirk, Bret Newkirk (Richard Leach), Debra Stewart, and Tony Newkirk; grandchildren, Wesley (Marissa) Newkirk, Taryn Stewart, and Luke Denbow; a very special sister-in-law, Mary Francis Newkirk; and brother-in-law, Terry Newkirk and family. Patty was preceded in death by her parents, William and Ethel Melton; and two sisters. Calling hours for family will be private on Monday, December 21, 2020, at Elm Ridge Funeral Home, 4600 West Kilgore Avenue, Muncie, Indiana 47304. Funeral services will be private on Monday, December 21, 2020, at Elm Ridge Funeral Home. Due to the COVID19 PANDEMIC, a mask is required at services and visitation. To be safe remember to adhere to the six foot social distancing. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.elmridgefuneralhome.com for the Newkirk family.