Patricia was the fourth of five children born to Utah and Elsie Leist. The family was originally from Oklahoma but moved to California when Patricia was five years old. Patricia graduated from Riverdale High School in 1962. Patricia began in career for Pacific Bell as a telephone operator on the switch board in the late ‘60s. She became a pioneer in the phone company when she became one of the first lady telephone installers in the 1970’s. She then went on to become the first lady on the test board. Patricia ended her career for the phone company as the district supervisor for the Central Valley District ranging from Bakersfield to Modesto. After 20 years, she retired from the phone company at 48 years old. She then began her work in foster care. During this period in her life she cared for and provided a home for over 1100 children. She touched many of these children’s lives and continued to be in contact with some through adulthood. She ended her working career working as a real estate appraiser with her late husband, Larry Davis. Patricia believed in a strong work ethic.
Patricia enjoyed attending the Church of Christ where she was happy to help with the community food give away. In her spare time, Patricia enjoyed gardening and traveling. Patricia’s greatest joy was her family. She was proud of and loved her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed going to their events and cheering them on in sports.
Patricia was preceded in death by her parents Utah and Elise Leist; her siblings, Yvonne Conley, Ray Leist, Nadine Epps, and Robert Dale Leist, and her husband, Larry Davis.
Patricia is survived by her children, Art (Bud) Davis of Tulare, California, Kathy Davis of Riverdale California, Phil Jernigan of Dunn, North Carolina, and Telly Sanders of Fresno, California. Patricia leaves behind grandchildren, Aimee Brazil, Suzanna Montoya, Joel Montoya, Rebecca Campbell, and Jamie Upchurch, in addition to many nieces, nephews, their children and countless foster children.
Patricia’s love and willingness to help others is the strong legacy she leaves behind.
A memorial will be held at her home on Saturday, October 3, 2020, at 1:00. Address 23410 Rd. 140, Tulare, Ca 93274.
