With deep love and sorrow, we announce the passing of Patricia Ann Thornburgh of Arcata, who entered eternal rest on May 8, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.

Patricia Ann Williams was born on January 14, 1937, in Seattle, Washington, to Ray Joseph Williams and Martha Elvira Lundquist. She attended Ballard High School and later graduated from Whitworth College, a Presbyterian college in Spokane, Washington. She earned her Master’s of Social Work from the University of Washington in 1962. Pat initially worked as a social worker, dedicating herself to helping others even before she began raising her own family.

On December 18, 1960, Pat married her beloved husband, the late Dale Alden Thornburgh. Together, they built a life filled with love, purpose, and service to others. In 1962, they moved from Seattle to Arcata where Dale worked as Professor of Forestry at Humboldt State University. After stepping away from her early career to raise their children, Pat returned to her calling through her work with Head Start, where she spent over 20 years enriching the lives of children and families. She especially valued the deep, personal connections she made during this time. One such bond led to Bouathong Inthanou, a student from one of the families she served, becoming part of their home and hearts as a foster daughter.

Pat was a devoted mother to her three sons — Mark (deceased), Larry, and Joel — and a loving grandmother to Dandy, Charles, Julia, Scott, Sara, Sean, Marlie, Avery, and Erin. She also held deep affection and respect for her daughters-in-law: Claire, Mary Ann and Vickie.

She found joy in the simple beauty of the world around her. Pat loved bird watching and often took peaceful walks at the Arcata Marsh, where she found solace and inspiration in nature. But above all, her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren, whose presence brought light and laughter into her life.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the many caregivers who were not only a tremendous help in Pat’s later life but became extended family to her — especially Debra, Terri, Jami, Faith and Lily. A special thank you goes to Dr. Connie Basch, Visiting Angels, Frye’s Care Home of Eureka, and Hospice of Humboldt for their compassionate and dedicated care.

In honor of Pat’s wishes, a private family graveside service will be held at Greenwood Cemetery in Arcata and memorial donations may be made to Whitworth College in lieu of flowers — www.whitworth.edu.

Known for her quiet strength, compassion, and unwavering commitment to family and community, Pat touched the lives of many. Her grace, wisdom, and generous spirit will be remembered always.

She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and love that will continue to live on through her family and all those who were fortunate enough to know her.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Pat Thornburgh’s loved onesThe Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.