Patricia Silveria Paxton

Patricia Silveria Paxton passed away peacefully on the morning of June 3, 2025, in West Haven, Utah.  She was 95 years old.

Born on March 29, 1930, in Redlands, California, Patricia's life was shaped by resilience. Orphaned at a young age, she overcame early hardships through her deep and abiding Catholic faith. Her strength, wit, and independent spirit defined her long and full life.

Patricia spent most of her years in Southern California and the High Desert. A loving Mother and homemaker, she also dabbled in real estate and was a gifted artist. But it was her joy in gathering people--her love of conversation, storytelling, and feeding a crowd with whatever she had--that made her unforgettable. She had a knack for turning modest moments in lasting memories.

She was previously married to Joseph Zrelak, with whom she had seven children, and later to William Darwin, with whom she had her youngest daughter, Seanna. In later years, Patricia lived independently or with her children--just the way she preferred, keeping her freedom or flight available but always her connection to family was close.

Patricia is survived by her brother, Terry Paxton, and her sister, Barbara Paxton, as well as her children, Seanna Houy; Patrick Zrelak; April Zrelak; Daniel Zrelak; Suzie Zrelak-Wilcox; Marilee "Toodie" Talley; and  Randy Zrelak.

She was preceded in death by her infant daughter, Monica Zrelak, and her beautiful, intelligent, soulful granddaughter, Hannah Zrelak.

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Corrine, Tyler, Taylor, Anna, PJ, Harlan, Serra, Luke, Joe, Deja, Justin, Jason, Matt, Zack, and several beloved great-grandchildren.

Known affectionately as Pat by most and Mom by her youngest, she was an eccentric soul with a razor-sharp wit, a deep love of reading--especially murder mysteries--and she had a soft spot for coffee and a strong cocktail.  She could outwit anyone at a cryptogram and often joked and debated like a philosopher/politician, even with children in tow at her favorite bar.  Many likened her beauty to Elizabeth Taylor, but it was her fierce spirit and devotion to her family that made her truly radiant.

In her final years, dementia came, but if it expected to dull her fire, it was sorely mistaken. Pat stayed feisty, sharp-tongued, and opinionated to the end--sometimes ornery, often suspicious, and always herself.

She even made a few new "friends" no one else could see and talked with them like old confidants.  If anyone could turn hallucinations into a happy hour--or a murder mystery--it was Pat.

She will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved.

Burial services are in care of Lindquist's Roy Mortuary, 3333 West 5600 South, Roy, Utah.

Private interment will take place at West Haven City Cemetery.

Send condolences to: www.lindquistmortuary.com

In lieu of flowers, please contact Seanna Houy for funds for Pat's grandson's, Paxton, AxD Support.