Patti and I became friends almost instantly when she joined Noland Company in Newport News, Virginia in the early 2000's. She proved to be as professional and knowledgeable about all things Benefits as she was sweet-natured, kind, and caring.
We became friends over lunches and working together and the bond spread to our husbands and families and other work friends. Patti and Ralph, their son, Michael, and later, their son-in-law, Brandon became like family to us. Patti loved her family, her cats (Bailey and Pepper), and enjoyed travel. She went to Europe, loved Rome, and was one of the original Key West Gang, of friends staying at Eden House. Bruce and I missed Patti and Ralph, when they moved to Florida, but enjoyed their hospitality when we visited them in Jacksonville. Patti was like a sister to me, she was someone I admired for her personality, spirit, wisdom, and strength. Patti had class and it was evident in everything she did. I cannot express how much I will miss her. I will never forget Patti and our friendship will continue in all the wonderful memories we made.
Marian Henry Rudd