Verna Patricia Haynes, affectionately known as "Pat," was born on September 8, 1957, at St. Louis Maternity Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, to John Matthew Haynes and Goldia Geraldine Pryor. After 68 beautiful, love-filled years, Pat transitioned peacefully on July 15, 2026, at Kindred Hospital in Brea, California, following a period of declining health. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, hospitality, and unconditional love that will echo in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Pat received her early education at East St. Louis Senior High School, where the foundation of her strong and spirited character was shaped. She went on to further education in Medical Billing and Coding in Washington, D.C., and later attended Victor Valley College in California, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to growth and learning.

Throughout her career, Pat served others with the same warmth and dedication she poured into everything she touched. She worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant, a front desk attendant at the Clyde C. Jordan Senior Citizens Center, and as a Security Guard -- each role a reflection of her protective, caring, and service-oriented spirit. Above all else, she was fiercely proud of the role she served in being a mother.

Faith was the foundation of Pat's life. She was a proud and joyful member of the Haynes Miracle Temple Choir, where her voice lifted praises and her spirit filled every room. The choir's rendition of "You Must Be Born Again" was one of her favorites -- though those closest to her will never forget her own beloved version: "You musty, you musty..." a memory that never fails to bring both laughter and tears to those who loved her most.

Pat was anointed for hospitality. If you knew her, you knew her kitchen and more importantly, you knew her fried chicken, her sweet potato pies, and her legendary barbecue. Guest preachers, pastors, and evangelists who traveled through East St. Louis didn't just look forward to the services, they specifically requested Pat's pies. Her cooking was more than food. It was love made tangible. She literally never met a stranger. Every person who crossed her path left feeling welcomed, included, and full -- both in their stomach and in their spirit. If you came over, you left with a bag full of groceries. If you were visiting, she already knew your favorite dish and had it waiting. She would not take no for an answer and she meant it.

Pat connected family, embraced community and raised a village. She was the kind of woman who made sure no one around her ever felt alone, forgotten, or unloved. Her home was everyone's home. Her table always had room for one more. Her arms were always open. And her heart -- her extraordinary, generous heart -- had no limits.

Pat is preceded in death by her beloved parents, John Matthew Haynes and Goldia Geraldine Haynes; her siblings, Arlene Haynes, Vivian Haynes, John Haynes II, Betty Haynes, Willie Haynes Sr., Ira Sylvester Haynes and Charles Haynes Sr.; and her cherished son, Geoffrey L. Smith.

She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted children, Lawrence E. Haynes and Brittani R. Haynes; her siblings, Macon C. Haynes, Rosie L. M. Haynes, and James G. E. Haynes Sr.; and a host of godchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends whose lives were forever enriched by her presence.