Patricia's obituary
Patricia Ann Kado-Wansley was born on March 17, 1950, to Adam Kado Sr. and Doreatha Johnson in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. At the age of 12, Patricia traveled to California for a visit. During this time, her mother tragically passed away. She then remained in California, where she was raised by her father and stepmother, Lucy Kado.
In California, Patricia's parents instilled in her a strong work ethic and a no-nonsense personality. Patricia attended Abraham Lincoln High School, where she became the first black student on the school's tennis team and the first black student to receive a letter in tennis. She was active in school activities and was well-known for her sense of humor.
Patricia had a brief marriage to Marvin Wansley, after which she relocated to Pennsylvania. Following their divorce, she returned to San Diego. Encouraged by her parents, Patricia pursued a career in nursing, dedicating her life to serving as a nurse and home health aide for the elderly, whom she cherished deeply.
Patricia was known for her wonderful sense of humor and vibrant personality, bringing life to any party or gathering. She loved people, her family, and God. Patricia had a keen sense of fashion, often embracing current trends with a touch of old-school elegance. She credited her grandmother, Sarah Kado ("Ma Ma"), for influencing her sense of style, etiquette, and introduction to God.
Her faith in the Lord was steadfast, and she praised, worshiped, and served God throughout her life. Patricia joined Le Detroit Baptist Church on February 3, 2016, and became an active member of various ministries, including the Seasoned Saints Ministry, Choir, Repast Ministry, Hospitality, Missionary Ministry, Community Outreach Luncheon, and Senior Distribution Ministry. She faithfully attended noon and evening prayers and morning prayer services. Singing was her true passion, and she was a dedicated member of the choir.
Patricia's faith remained strong until the very end. She left her earthy home on June 6, 2024, at George Washington Hospital, with her daughter Kizze Harris and son-in-love Sharlontaee' Harris by her side. In her final moments, Patricia expressed her wish to be remembered as someone always available to lend a hand to family, friends, and the community.
Patricia was preceded in death by her Son Jamaul Elliot Pennington, sister Val Stokes, brother William Stokes, sister Carolyn, brother Kenneth Kado, sister Janice Charles, sister Charlene Charles, Brother Christopher Kado, sister Connie Troy, and her dear friend Demetris Thomas. She is survived by her siblings Maureen Charles, Diane Armstrong, Richard Kado, James Charles, and Ronnie Kado, and her honorary sister and best friend Kateree Davis. She is also survived by honorary family members Sandra Stewart Tyler, Linda Burroughs, The Wiley family, The Reed Sisters, Pat Pope (Big Pat), Linda James, Rose Parks & Family, Shelia Norwood, The Heard family, and Linda Carter, as well as a host of nieces and nephews. She stated "She knows she was hard but “oh wella wella”. Laughed and then said 'she loved each and every one of you." Patricia cherished her grandchildren Japhera A. Clavo, Sharlontaee' Jamaul Harris, and West J. Harris, she held a special bond with West.
Patricia had a creative spirit and a love for the arts, obtaining certification in interior design and enjoying sewing. She passed her passion for the arts down to her daughter. Patricia will be remembered for her love, creativity, humor, and unwavering faith.