Rita Pat “Patti” Harrell

On November 27, 2025, Rita Pat Harrell crossed from earth into heaven after several long illnesses. Rita Pat (Patti) was born on August 13, 1943 in Waco, Texas, to Larue and William Harrell.  Her father was in the U.S. Army, and they traveled and lived in various locations in her early years.  Later her parents, both teachers, took positions in rural areas and Patti graduated from Gail High School where she played on the Women’s basketball team.  She was a fierce competitor, even though barely 5’ tall.    Patti graduated from Texas Tech in 1965 with the first group BA honor program.    She went on to receive her Master of Business Administration in 1967 and immediately moved to Midland, Texas, to begin her long public accounting career.  Patti was the managing partner of Harrell and McCart, then Harrell and Lupardus and was a CPA for 57 years.  She retired in 2024.

Patti had many interests including the Dallas Cowboys, pink flamingos and UFOs.  Anytime anyone she knew was passing through Roswell, she asked him to bring back a UFO trinket.  She was an avid bridge player and made life-long friends through bridge.  Patti was a generous friend and loved by many.  She had a fine sense of humor and wanted to be remembered for that above all else.

Patti was preceded in death by both of her parents and is survived by second cousins and numerous friends including Ann Riddle, Isobel Ferguson, and Pearl Avila.  A special thanks is given to caregivers, Pearl Avila, Mary Cavazos, Tisha Burton, Delma Iglesias, and Maria Torres.

Visitation is Thursday, December 4, 2025, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home.  Funeral service is Friday, December 5, 2025, 2:00 p.m. in the Nalley-Pickle & Welch Chapel, with burial to follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Stanton.

In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to your favorite animal rescue organization or the Martin County Senior Citizens, P.O. Box 1233, Stanton, Texas 79782.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.

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