Patricia “Pat” Koeppe Word, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away on June 3, 2024, at the age of 76. She was born on May 21, 1948, in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, yet resided most of her life in Greenville, Mississippi.
Pat’s career began in the banking industry, which proved to be instrumental as she and her husband owned and operated Word Construction, LLC for nearly 35 years. Pat finished her career an administrative professional with the Mississippi State University’s Extension Service, where she continued to dedicate her career to serving others. She was known for her kindness, humility and unwavering commitment to her work and the community. Pat’s exemplary character and work ethic left a lasting impact on all those she encountered.
Above all, Pat, more affectionally known as “Gee”, cherished her family. She loved nothing more than being surrounded by her loved ones, often hosting gatherings and preparing delicious home-cooked meals. Her warm, welcoming home was a sanctuary where memories were made and laughter was shared.
Pat was preceded in death by her parents, William “Bill” and Lucille “Lou” Koeppe (ne Kellner). Pat was married to her devoted husband, Jimmy Word, for 55 remarkable years. Together, they built a life and filled their home with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Pat is survived by her loving husband, Jimmy, and their three children: Beverly Hembree, Jim Word (Stephanie), and Greg Word. She was known as Gee to her grandchildren: Marie Filbey, Chad Filbey, Cooper Word, Mia Morgan Word and Cady Hembree.
In addition to her immediate family, Pat is survived by her two sisters, Chris Médaille and Janice “Jan” Koeppe as well as two close family friends, Kathy Schoeneberg and Seth Metcalf. She was a pillar of strength and love for her extended family, always offering support and guidance.
Pat’s impact extended beyond her family, as she was an active member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church, not only attending but donating her time and talents to better the congregation. An avid quilter, she poured her heart and soul into every stitch. She took great joy in creating beautiful quilts for her loved ones and sharing her passion with others through her involvement in the local quilt guild. Her selflessness and generosity touched the lives of many, through multiple charitable contributions, specifically St. Jude and Extra Table. Her legacy of goodness and greatness will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Patricia Koeppe Word will be dearly missed but forever remembered for her loving spirit and the positive impact she made on the world, community and family. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.
A funeral mass will be held in her honor at St. Joseph Catholic Church, where friends and family can come together to celebrate and pay tribute to Pat’s remarkable life. On Friday, June 7 there will be a Rosary at 9:30 a.m., with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Graveside services will follow at Greenville Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to either St. Jude Children’s Hospital (stjude.org) or Extra Table (extratable.org).