Patricia Ann Rucks Brown

Patricia Ann Rucks Brown, of Lake Hamilton, Fla., passed away peacefully at her home on Oct. 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. Pat will be greatly missed by her family and all who knew and loved her. Her family takes great comfort in knowing that she is in the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and free of all earthly pain.

Pat was born on Oct. 4, 1942, in Hollywood, Fla., to the late William Olan and Blanche Rucks. She was reared in Pompano Beach where she made her home until she was a high school senior. She graduated from Lake Wales High School in 1960. In August 1976 she accepted a position as bus specialist for East Area for the Polk County School Board. Prior to accepting this position, Pat was employed as secretary at First Christian Church for more than six years and a bus driver for six years. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Lake Wales and served as department director and Sunday school teacher during the 1970s. For nearly 50 years, she dedicated her life to the Polk County Public School System, retiring as the Area Supervisor of Transportation in 2018.

A devoted member of Shamrock Baptist Church in Haines City for the past 35 years, Pat enjoyed singing in the church choir and always serving in any way that was needed. She was also a part of the Haines City Garden Club, where she enjoyed spending time with friends. She and her husband Richard enjoyed RVing and playing cards with their friends and family.

Pat’s passion for family was evident in every aspect of her life. She treasured the moments spent with her loved ones, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She took great pleasure in preparing meals for family and friends—always ensuring that everyone felt at home. She was known for her chicken and dumplings, veggie bars, biscuits and sausage gravy. Pat wasn’t just known as Grandma to her grandchildren; she was everyone’s Grandma—known by so many as “Grandma Pat.” She had a heart big enough for everyone, and she gave without hesitation, without expectation—just pure love.

Pat is survived by her devoted husband of 45 years, Richard E. Brown, and their daughters: Alison Freeland and husband Tombo of Winter Haven, Kimberly Browning of Lake Wales, and Brenda Bolden (late husband Jimmy) of Bartow. She is also survived by her sister, Sherrie Hearn, as well as her grandchildren: Bobby Bolden, Kristopher Browning, Jared Bolden, Jessica Proia and husband Bryan, and Sara Grace Freeland. Pat’s legacy also includes her great-grandchildren: Bailey Browning, Kiley Proia, Jared Bolden Jr., Weston Bolden, Kendal Proia, Colt Browning, Kenna Proia, and Elenor Freeland.

She was predeceased by her brother, Billy Rucks, and sister, Dale Barker.

In celebrating her life, loved ones are invited to join the family on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, at Shamrock First Baptist Church (2661 Marshall Rd., Haines City, Fla.), with visitation at 10:00 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. Rev. Rick Giles will be officiating.

Reception following the service at Tom Fellows Community Center 207 North Blvd. W, Davenport, FL 33837.