Patricia Ann Campbell

Patricia Ann Campbell, affectionately known as "Pat," was born on June 14, 1939, in Marked Tree, Arkansas, to Jesse H. and Dora S. (Rhodes) Hortman. She departed this life on October 16, 2025, at Big Rapids Fields Assisted Living and Memory Care Center, surrounded by her three beloved children, Judy, Tracey, and Steve, after a courageous two-year battle with Cerebral Vascular Dementia (CVD). Her passing came just a year after the loss of her devoted husband, Billy Campbell, with whom she shared an incredible bond of love for 67 years.

Pat was a graduate of Lepanto High School, Class of 1956. It was there that she met her husband, Bill, and they were married in 1957. Throughout her life, she dedicated many years working as a second-shift sewing machine operator at General Motors and later served as a receptionist in the ER at Butterworth Hospital. Her work ethic and commitment to her roles reflected her intelligent and sassy personality. Pat was never one to shy away from sharing her thoughts, and her candor was cherished by those who knew her.

Pat's greatest joy came from her family. She relished countless moments spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating memories that will forever be cherished. Thanksgiving and Christmas was a particularly special time for Pat, as she took pride in preparing magnificent feasts and decorating for her loved ones. Family game nights, filled with laughter and camaraderie, often revolved around card games and karaoke, where her beautiful voice could be heard filling the space with warmth and joy.

A woman of many talents, Pat enjoyed daily crossword puzzles, drawing, and painting. Crafting was also a passion; she delighted in bedazzling clothing with jewels and glitter, creating colorful graham cracker houses each Christmas, and making sparkling clothespin angel ornaments. Of special note were her beautifully dressed Victorian clothespin people, which adorned her holiday village, bringing magic to the season. Her love for music extended back to her teenage years, where she sang in her high school choir. In later years she played the piano and guitar and often strummed alongside her husband, sharing the gift of music both at home and in local churches.

While Pat often downplayed her own talents, she was immensely proud of her children and grandchildren, finding joy in their accomplishments and nurturing their dreams.

She leaves behind a loving family that includes her daughters, Judy (Steve) Reed of Cedar Springs, MI, Tracey (Jeff) Price of Waldport, Oregon, and son Steve Campbell of Big Rapids, MI. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Crystal Hunter of Evart, MI; Holly (Markus) Ascherl of Texas; Donald Hunter of Kentucky; Rachel (Josh) Hunt of Plainwell, MI; Jessica (Joe) Williams of Cedar Springs, MI; Steven Reed of Cedar Springs, MI, and Sabrina, Emma, and Justin Campbell, all of Big Rapids, MI. Pat was also blessed with eight great-grandchildren, including Christian, Caleb, Millie, Landon, Atlas, Maverick, Ember, and Sage.

In addition to her cherished family, Pat is survived by her sisters-in-law, Annemarie Hortman, Margaret Campbell, and Betty Campbell, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will hold her memory close to their hearts.

Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Campbell; her sister, Laura Isbill; her brother, William Hortman; and brothers-in-law Joseph Isbill, Johnny Campbell, Bobby Campbell, Shelby Campbell, and Buddy Campbell. She also grieved the loss of her niece, Patty Brown, and nephew, David Hortman.

Patricia Ann Campbell’s vibrant spirit will be missed deeply by all who knew her. Her love, warmth, and unwavering support have left an indelible mark on the lives she touched, guiding her family as they carry her memory forward.

A memorial service will be held in her honor on Tuesday, October 21, at Grand Rapids Cremation Service, 4350 Plainfield Ave, Grand Rapids, MI. Visitation starts at 11 a.m. and funeral at 11:30 a.m. A light lunch will be served after. Donations will be accepted to help with funeral expenses. Go to Donations.