Patricia Smiley Graddy

Patricia “Pat” Graddy, a beloved daughter, wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 81 on July 24, 2024, in the ICU at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Savannah, GA, surrounded by her loved ones. After a courageous battle with metastatic colon cancer since 2017, 

Pat’s beautiful spirit has found rest.Pat was born to Kenneth and Louise Smiley on January 13, 1943, in Waycross, GA. She cherished her childhood, especially the time spent at her grandparents' home in Walthourville, GA, where she played with her brothers, cousins, and friends. Pat attended Bradwell Institute where she was a cheerleader for the Bradwell Lions football team, a majorette and was an active participant in several clubs. Her junior year saw her on the homecoming court, and in her senior year, she was crowned Homecoming and May Day Queen and voted Prettiest. She also played basketball, and earned the title of Miss Liberty County.On July 18, 1963, Pat married her childhood sweetheart, Len, at the First Presbyterian Church of Hinesville, where they were active members for many years. Pat dedicated her time teaching Sunday School, Vacation Bible School and was known for preparing and serving food after many church services.Pat worked at the County Extension office for several years, forming many lifelong friendships. On December 26, 1971, she and Len welcomed their precious daughter Heather, who became the center of their universe. Pat loved being a “Mama” to Heather, actively participating in her t-ball, softball, and tennis activities. She also volunteered in Heather’s classroom and proudly supported her during high school football games when Heather was on the drill team.Though she didn’t particularly enjoy cooking, Pat had a talent for creating delicious meals. She and Len hosted numerous Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings, spending hours in the kitchen with her mother, Louise, to prepare magnificent feasts. Christmas was Pat’s favorite holiday, and she transformed their home into a scene straight out of Southern Living magazine with her keen eye for decorating.Pat enjoyed the simple pleasures of life: watching "Murder She Wrote" and British comedies, solving crossword puzzles, spending time with friends, or enjoying quiet evenings at home with Len. She had an extraordinary ability to make others feel important and cared for, with a heart of pure gold.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Louise Smiley, and her younger brothers, Ken and Jeff Smiley. 

She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Len Graddy; her loving daughter Heather; her sisters-in-law, Angie Smiley, Sharon Smiley, Brenda Bonnet, and Sheila Crawford (Mike); her nephews, Kenny Smiley (Teri), Joey Murphy (Annette), and Mike Crawford IV (Kate); her nieces, Alison Hugli (Bryan) and Sarah Rainwater (Michael); and several great-nieces and nephews and many cousins.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Dolores Cheney, Pam Proman, Tracey Rogers, Low Country Cancer Care, Dr. Ajaz Bulbul and his staff, and the compassionate nurses and doctors in the ER and ICU at St. Joseph’s Hospital.

A private family visitation will be held at Carter Funeral Home from 3 pm to 4 pm, followed by graveside services at Hinesville Cemetery at 4 pm, officiated by John Crosby. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Hinesville and/or the American Cancer Society.

Carter Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.