Pherson

Patty Jo (Smith) Pherson, 90, of Butler, passed away Tuesday, March 31, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Pat was born in New Castle on Nov. 10, 1935. She was the daughter of Joe and Betty (Green) Smith.

Pat graduated from New Castle High School and attended Westminster College, taking a two-year secretarial course.

Pat’s life changed when she met a nice boy at a local square dance. Bill Pherson was from Volant and he was attending Westminster College with the plan to become a doctor. After he completed his first year at Temple University Medical School, he and Pat were married. Bill had enlisted in the Air Force and upon completion of his internship, he was assigned to a post in Zaragoza, Spain. They enjoyed life in the Air Force and Spain for several years.

Eventually, they settled in Butler, where Bill set up practice as a surgeon and Pat went about raising their three children and managing their home. Bill died suddenly, and Pat became a widow at age 48. She never remarried, instead choosing to devote herself to family and friends.

Pat loved pie of any kind, dogs, “Doc Martin” on PBS and the books of Elizabeth George. She disliked politics, cocktail parties and small talk. She will be missed greatly.

Pat is survived by her son, David Pherson, of Windsor, Conn.; and daughter, Amy (Dale) Barnhart, of Butler. Also surviving are three grandchildren, Patty Pherson, Joe Barnhart and Luke Barnhart.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William “Bill” Pherson; and daughter, Ellen Pherson.

PHERSON — A visitation for Patty Jo (Smith) Pherson, who died Tuesday, March 31, 2026, will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, with a funeral service immediately following at noon, on Saturday, April 4, at THOMPSON-MILLER FUNERAL HOME, 124 E. North St., Butler, with Pastor Mark Allio officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Doctors Without Borders at give.doctorswithoutborders.org, or to a charity of your choice.

All who knew Pat are encouraged to share memories and upload photos to her unique remembrance page at www.thompson-miller.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.