Patricia Lani Hernandez

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our Mom, Patricia Lani Hernandez (Swart), who left us on December 16, 2023 at the age of 80. She departed this world surrounded by loved ones, transitioning from a life well-lived to eternal peace.

Born on July 17, 1943, in Santa Monica, California, Patricia was a Navy child, and moved quite often. She lived in Oregon, Hawaii, northern California before finally settling in San Pedro, California. She went to her beloved St. Mary Star of the Sea School, where she forged friendships and had fond memories. She touched the lives of many with her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for family and friends.

In her professional life, Pat was a RN at Coffeyville Regional Medical Center for many years, where she was a House Supervisor and in charge of the ER and ICU. She then worked as a House Supervisor at the Wilson Medical Center in Neodesha, Kansas. She dedicated her life to taking care of people and ensuring that they would be given the best care possible.

Beyond Pat's professional pursuits, she was known for shopping at Walmart, crafting, and making floral arrangements for many of the family's weddings. She loved traveling, she had visited many places throughout her life but her heart was near the water. She loved the emerald coast and white sands of Florida's panhandle, but the west coast and Pacific Ocean was her home. Her enthusiasm for giving to those who were in need knew no bounds. Her infectious spirit and zest for life created lasting memories for those fortunate enough to share in her life's journey. She never met and stranger and she was loved by all.

Family was paramount to Pat, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and devotion. Pat is preceded in death by her parents Lon and Eleanor Swart. She is survived by her children and their spouses: Mike and Jennifer Hernandez, Mark Hernandez, Tod and Kim Hernandez, Kari Hernandez, and Brenda Williams. She is also survived by her grandchildren Michaela Hernandez, Hayley Cobb, Stephen Pruitt, Noa Hernandez, Chad Owens, Justin Owens, and her many great-grandchildren. Pat's impact of love and acceptance extended well beyond the traditional family circle, as Patricia Lani Hernandez forged lasting connections with friends and colleagues who will cherish the moments they shared together.

A Celebration of Life ceremony of Patricia's life will be held on January 18, 2024 at Potts Chapel, 122 S Penn, Independence, Kansas at 1:00 pm.

As we mourn the loss of Pat, let us also remember and celebrate the joy, laughter, and love she brought into our lives. May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may her memory continue to inspire us to live with the same passion and grace that defined her time with us.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.pottsfuneralhome.com.

Rest in Peace, Mom. You will forever remain in our hearts.