Patti Girton

(From Parker Mortuary)

Patricia Ann Girton, 78, of Joplin, Missouri, known as Patti by all of her friends and acquaintances, passed away on April 14, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and devoted service to others.

Patti was born on July 23, 1947, in Joplin, Missouri, the daughter of the late Charles and Patricia Ross, to a life that would be marked by compassion, dedication, and a deep commitment to her family and community. She was a Christian whose faith guided the way she lived each day, and she was known by all who loved her as a loving, kind, and generous woman. Patti carried herself with warmth and grace, and she touched the lives of many through her gentle spirit and steadfast care.

She was a 1965 graduate of Joplin High School and went on to complete her college courses in nursing. Her calling to care for others became the foundation of a long and meaningful career. Patti worked in the nursery and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Freeman Hospital for more than 40 years, where her skill, patience, and compassion brought comfort to countless families during some of their most tender and difficult moments. She also worked alongside Pediatrician Dr. Raymond Grote for several years at his office in Joplin, where she was respected for her dedication and trusted for her steady presence.

Patti’s greatest joy in life was her family. She leaves surviving her husband of 58 years, Emmitt Girton, who shared with her a lifetime of love and companionship. She is also survived by her daughter, Christy Van Auker of Riverton, Kansas, and her son, Perry Girton and Alice of Webb City, Missouri. She is survived by her brother, Bob Ross and Brenda of Carl Junction, Missouri. Patti was a proud and loving grandmother to her five grandchildren, Madison Westermier and Cameron of Stover, Missouri, Brandon Girton of Webb City, Missouri, Jodie Howard of Webb City, Missouri, Lauren Van Auker of Denton, Texas, and Sophia Van Auker of Riverton, Kansas. She was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Ellie Westermier and Aiden Westermier of Stover, Missouri, who brought her immense joy. She also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends who survive her passing.

Patti especially loved anything that involved her grandchildren, and her devotion to them was evident in all she did. She was present at every outing, event, and special moment she could attend, always eager to show her love and support. Whether it was a game, a performance, or a family gathering, Patti made her grandchildren feel cherished and celebrated. Her love for them was one of the brightest parts of her life, and they were truly the center of her world.

In addition to her family and career, Patti enjoyed bowling and found happiness in simple pleasures shared with those she loved. Her life was a reflection of quiet strength, faithful service, and unwavering devotion to others. She will be remembered for the many lives she touched, the comfort she gave, and the example she set through her kindness and generosity.

Those who knew Patti will remember her as a woman of deep faith, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, and a source of comfort and encouragement to anyone whom she met.

The visitation for Mrs. Patricia 'Patti" Girton will take place at Parker Mortuary on Friday, April 17 from 6 to 7 p.m.

Memorial services will be held on Monday, April 20 at 10 a.m. at the Christ Community – Joplin with Pastor Chris Sloan officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked donation be made to Solace House of the Ozarks or Easterseals Midwest of Joplin.