Patricia Belle Young

Patricia Belle Young, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and woman of God, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on January 21, 1939, in South Charleston, Ohio, Patricia lived a life marked by creativity, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.

A graduate of Enon High School, Patricia’s talents blossomed early in her life. She was a talented seamstress who found great joy in crafting dresses, quilts, and doll clothing—many of which she generously donated to children in Mexico and South America. Her passion for sewing extended beyond mere craft; she taught women to sew during her travels in Peru, empowering them with valuable skills and fostering community development.

Patricia’s love for missions was a defining feature of her life. Alongside her beloved husband Larry Young, to whom she was married for 67 years, she extended remarkable hospitality and care to those in need. They opened their home to a young girl from the Dominican Republic who had suffered severe burns, providing her with comfort and support while she received medical treatment. They also hosted a medical student from Peru during his studies. Furthermore, Patricia sponsored a young girl from Peru through the Church of God from the age of six until she completed college, reflecting Patricia’s deep compassion and commitment to nurturing lives across the globe.

Her adventurous spirit led her to travel alone to Central and South America, where she immersed herself in new cultures and learned to speak Spanish during a visit to Guatemala. Patricia’s affinity for flowers was well known; she delighted in surrounding herself with every color of bloom she could find. She also loved collecting dolls and antiques, and with Larry’s shared knack for repair, they turned ordinary items into beautiful treasures—a testament to their shared creativity and skill.

Patricia was a woman of distinct character, steadfast in her convictions, yet always accommodating. She never wished others to go out of their way for her, embodying a quiet strength and selflessness. Those who knew her admired her profound compassion, her graceful hospitality, and her remarkable ability to discern the feelings of others. Many spoke of her discernment, how she could look deeply into a person’s soul, recognize when something was amiss, and offer comfort and assurance. She was an outstanding wife, mother, and grandmother who enriched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Patricia is survived by her four beloved children—Steve (Keri) Young, Greg (Kathy) Young, Jackie (Chris) DeBrecht, and Scott (Inda) Young—as well as ten cherished grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren who carry forward her legacy. Her sister, Wilma Jean (Jack) Goodbar, and sister-in-law, Carol Shaffer, also survive her, along with numerous extended family members and many dear friends who mourn her loss and celebrate her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Huston and Ruby Shaffer; her beloved husband, Larry Young; her brother, John Shaffer; and her older sister, Leah Stafford.

Patricia Belle Young’s life was one of love, humility, and dedicated service. Her memory will endure in the hearts of all she touched through her work, her kindness, and her unwavering spirit.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at Newspring Church (1150 S. Main Street, Springboro, OH 45066). Funeral service will begin at 3:00 pm. Patricia will be laid to rest in Londonderry Cemetery in Chillicothe, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution in Patricia's memory to the Community Pregnancy Center (3717 Roosevelt Blvd., Middletown, OH 45044).

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