Patricia “Patty” Elizabeth Burns Pickert passed away on May 24, 2025, at the age of 84. Tiny in stature but boundless in heart and personality, Patty was a vibrant spirit in the lives of everyone who knew her. She was quick-witted and unforgettable.
Born on July 18, 1940, to Bill and Rosetta Burns, Patty grew up in Kansas with a strong faith in God and a dedication to Catholic traditions that guided her through life. She graduated from St. Mary’s High School, Pittsburg, KS and later attended Pittsburg State University.
She married the love of her life, Lawrence “Larry” Pickert, on September 5, 1960, and together they built a home filled with family, friends, and adventure. They raised four sons - Bill, Jerry, John, and Tom. Being the mom of four boys meant a whirlwind of Boy Scout camps, half-built cars in the garage, broken windows, broken arms, and constant motion but Patty was the steady, loving glue that held it all together.
She spent much of her professional life working in the medical field as a medical transcriptionist and office manager.
A gifted musician, Patty played both piano and organ beautifully and shared that talent generously. She often played the organ for weekly Mass accompanying her beloved Holy Cross church choir. On her return from England she joined the Holy Spirit Choir, where she developed many dear and lasting friendships. A talented choral singer, she shared her voice and deep love of music with her community.
An amazing cook, she poured love into every meal, and her family will long cherish the flavors, aromas, and memories tied to her kitchen. Recipes from Grammy are sure to be passed down and enjoyed for many years to come.
She was married to her husband, Larry, for nearly 65 years. His career with Coca-Cola took them across the United States and even to the United Kingdom, but no matter where they lived, Patty made it home.
Patty appreciated the finer things in life - good music, great food, beautiful homes, and meaningful relationships. She loved to travel, play games and spend time with those important to her. One favorite memory for her grandchildren was the cherished week they spent at “Camp Grammy,” packed with games, adventures, and her signature humor.
Patty was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Joe Burns and her grandson Christopher Pickert.
She is survived by her loving husband, Larry; her adoring sons, Bill (Traci) Pickert, Jerry (Desiree’) Pickert, John (Michelle) Pickert, Tom (Janelle) Pickert; her beloved grandchildren Becky (Robert) Belanger, Emily (Cameron) Rhodes, Sarah (Jake) Faflick, and Jack, Connor, Kelsey, Gavin, Joe, Molly, Makensie, Chase, and Morgan Pickert; and her great-grandchildren Mark and James Belanger and Austin and Chloe Rhodes.
She is also survived by her siblings Jim (Joanne) Burns, Mary Laura Burns Barnett, and Maggie Burns Garriott.
She leaves behind a family who adored her, friends who treasured her, and a life filled with love, laughter, and music that will be remembered always.
Funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m., with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m., and the Rosary being prayed at 10:45 a.m. on Friday, May 30 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Overland Park, KS. Burial at 2:30 P.M. in the Saint Boniface Catholic Cemetery in Scipio, KS.