Patricia L. Easterling

Born in Middletown, Ohio, May 18th, 1924, to Richard A. and Susie Easterling. Passed away July 21, 2014. Patricia attended South Elementary and graduated Middletown High School "Class of 1942". Patricia then went to work for Armco Steel for approximately 18 months before enlisting in the United States Coast Guard and trained in Palm Beach, Florida, becoming a member of the SPARS BAND (Semper Paratus = Always Ready). She then transferred to Washington DC Headquarters where she participated in Welcoming Home Ceremonies for Admiral Nimitz and General Dwight D. Eisenhower. She also marched in the funeral for President Franklin D. Roosevelt, directly behind the caisson carrying him. Patricia also played in the Spars concert and dance bands. At the close of WWII, Patricia was honorably discharged and returned to Middletown and Armco getting a job in the Armco photo department under the supervision of Arnold Boxwell who persuaded Patricia to go to photography school in New Haven Ct. which was located on the Yale University campus. She studied there for a year where she learned portrait (earning a gold medal), commercial and color photography. She then returned to Middletown and Armco for a short time before starting her own photography business a studio in Dayton, Ohio, on Salem Avenue, in the early 50's. Later she purchased a historical building (built in 1827) on the corner of 1st and Jefferson Streets, from which to operate her studio. She also opened studios in Middletown and Beavercreek, Ohio. "Easterling Studios" are still in operation in the Dayton area. During Patricia's career she won several awards. A Ribbon with the Ohio State Photographers Association, as well as an award from the "Professional Photographers of America". Patricia enjoyed playing golf with her numerous friends. She also enjoyed snow skiing and water sports. Patricia also traveled extensively (wearing out three motor homes) covering all of the lower 48 states with life long friend Audrey Jewel. Patricia also traveled "Around the World"! Highlights included visiting the Holy Land, riding an elephant in India, visiting the Taj Mahal, visiting her sister on Midway Island and Japan. Patricia also had a passion for Kentucky and horses, especially Paso Fino's which she bred on her modest horse farm near Cave Run Lake. Patricia was also a proud Kentucky Colonel! Patricia was also a participant in developing the Stoney Brook Girl Scout Camp near Lebanon, Ohio. Patricia was also a member of the Soroptimist (Dayton chapter) and the American Legion.

Patricia was preceded in death by her brother Robert Easterling (and Mary Ellen) and sister Marilyn Gwinn (and Thomas). Patricia is survived by numerous nephews & nieces. Among who she called friends were her long time caregivers, Lois, Mandy, Carmen, & Cathy, Their love & devotion unparalleled. Thanks to Dr. Mary Ellen Gaeke and her nurse, Kim, for their extraordinary care. Special thanks for the caring & compassion shown to her from the Middletown Hospice team.

Funeral Service will be held Friday, July 25, 2014 at 11:00 am at Wilson-Schramm-Spaulding Funeral Home, 3805 Roosevelt Blvd., Middletown. Visitation will be prior to the service from 10:00 – 11:00 am. Interment will be at Woodside Cemetery with military honors conducted by the Middletown Combined Honor Guard.

Memorial donations may be made to Hospice Care of Middletown, 3909 Central Ave., Middletown, Ohio 45044.

Funeral Home:
Wilson-Schramm-Spaulding
3805 Roosevelt Blvd.
Middletown, OH
US 45044