Patrica "Patty" Ann Vann

Patricia (Patty) Ann Vann 

February 27, 1940 – June 7, 2025

 Patricia (Patty) Ann Vann, age 85, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, in Topeka, Kansas. Born on February 27, 1940, in San Francisco, California, Patricia lived a life rich in passion, creativity, and dedication to both her career and her loved ones.

 Patricia had a long and fulfilling career with the Federal Aviation Administration, where she was deeply proud of her work and contributions. Her professional life was marked by a commitment to excellence and a passion for service.

As an adult, Patricia earned her Bachelor’s degree from Avila University in Kansas City, Missouri.

 Beyond her career, Patricia was a lifelong lover of the arts and all things creative. She found joy in singing with the Johnson County Community Choir, crocheting, and participating in theater. An avid reader and enthusiastic traveler, she embraced life with curiosity and a love for new experiences. 

Patricia was preceded in death by her father, Aubrey Smith and her mother Evelyn Smith, her beloved husband, William Vann and granddaughter Danielle Gauntz. Patricia is survived by her beloved children Jeff Gauntz, Andy Gauntz, Lu Ann Blake, Joy Irvine Robbins and Jennifer Diaz; her step-sons William Vann, Jr. and Michael Vann; her brother John Smith; and her sister Kathleen Elcano; her grandchildren Jake Gauntz, Isaac Gauntz, Stephanie Faletoi, Frank Gauntz, Brandon Campbell, Josh Campbell, Aubrey Campbell, Jeremiah Conner, Jackie Stanhope, Brandi Beckerle, Christy Burns, Hope Nuessle, and Annabella Diaz. She was a devoted mother, sister, and friend whose warmth, wit, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the American Stroke Association at www.stroke.org in Patricia’s memory. 

Patricia will be laid to rest with her husband William Vann at Longview Funeral Home & Cemetery in Kansas City, Missouri. 12700 Raytown Rd. Kansas City, MO 64149, on August 30, 2025, at 3:00pm.

 A Celebration of Life will be held at the Red Bridge Baptist Church at 4:30pm, 4901 E. Red Bridge Road, Kansas City, MO 64137.