Elizabeth Patricia (Stowers) Washam

Elizabeth Patricia Stowers Washam, 81, Vinton, Ohio, passed away peacefully and comfortably on Friday morning, February 24, 2012 at Holzer Senior Care Center, Bidwell, Ohio. Elizabeth Patricia "Trish" was born January 24, 1931 in Milton, West Virginia to the late Stollie B. and Ruth M. (Lucas) Stowers. Preceding her in death January 10, 2012 was her husband of 22 years, Dr. William Thomas Washam V M.D., J.D. Also preceding her in death were brothers Larry Stowers and Charles Lee Stowers, and brother-in-law Vernon L. Craddock. She is survived by brother Edward (Mary) Stowers, Bidwell; sisters, Carolyn Stowers (Bill) Bradley, Gatesville, Texas and Janie Stowers (Vernon) Craddock, Barboursville, West Virginia; several loving nieces and nephews; and special caregiver, Elaine Weaver.

Trish graduated from Rio Grande High School, Rio Grande, Ohio, attended Rio Grande College and later graduated from Gallipolis Jr. Business College. Trish worked as a legal secretary in the Gallipolis area and also served in various office capacities for Holzer Medical Center for several years prior to moving to Chillicothe, Ohio where she retired in the health care field in 1990.

Trish was Worthy Matron of the Order of Eastern Star and served as Harris Harvester 4-H Advisor for several years, where she advised and lead 4-H members to winning many awards each year at the Gallia County Fair. Trish was loved by many people and was a mentor and role model to many boys and girls throughout her life. She was a loving daughter, nicknamed "Pearl", a sister, a devoted wife, and a true friend and confidant. In 1971, while employed by Holzer Medical Center, Trish entered a competition and was awarded first prize for creating and designing the original logo for Holzer Medical Center. Trish was a self-taught, talented artist and loved capturing and painting nature scenes.

For the love and commitment to hospice care, Trish and her sister Janie, established the first inpatient hospice suite in memory of their mother, Ruth M. Stowers at Holzer Medical Center in Gallipolis. In addition, for their love of canines, and in memory of their mother, donated a Labrador named, New Hope (aka Newbie) to the residents at Holzer Sr. Care Center.

Trish loved nature and animals of all breeds, particularly the many canine companions she rescued throughout her lifetime. She leaves behind her three beloved dogs, Freckles (male cocker spaniel); Smokey (male chow/German Shepherd mix) and Lulu (female Shih Tzu) who are looking for homes where they will be loved.

Trish and her family are thankful for the loving care and support she received from the staff at Holzer Sr. Care Center during her stay. She was also very appreciative of the many visits and prayers she received from Rev. Alfred Holley and Chaplain Fred Williams.

A Service of Remembrance for Elizabeth Patricia Washam and Dr. William Thomas Washam V will be conducted 11:00 AM Saturday, March 3, 2012 at McCoy Moore Funeral Home, Wetherholt Chapel, 420 First Avenue, Gallipolis, Ohio with Rev. Alfred Holley and Chaplain Fred Williams officiating. Friends may call at the Funeral home on Friday, March 2, 2012 from 6:00–8:00 PM. Private interment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Elizabeth Patricia Stowers Washam to:
Holzer Hospice
100 Jackson Pike
Gallipolis, OH 45631
or
Holzer Sr. Care Center
Resident Activity Program
380 Colonial Drive
Bidwell, OH 45614
or
to an animal shelter of your choice.

Condoleneces may be sent to www.mccoymoore.com