Patricia Ann (Eaves) Sykes
Patricia Ann (Eaves) Sykes, age 91, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2026, in Farmington, Missouri.
Born on June 26, 1935, in St. Francois County, Missouri, Pat was the daughter of Gentry and Ida Eaves. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, teacher, and faithful follower of Jesus Christ whose life was defined by love, kindness, and service to others.
Pat was preceded in death by her beloved husband of nearly 65 years, Royce Wayne Sykes Sr.; her son, Royce Wayne Sykes Jr.; and her parents, Gentry and Ida Eaves.
She is survived by her daughter, Beverly Davidson and her husband, Doug; her son, Curtis Sykes and his wife, Cindy; her grandchildren, Rhiannon Jordan, Cordelia Wilson, Alexandria Estes, Lake Davidson, Leif Davidson, John Sykes, Chandler Sykes, Skyler Davidson, and Summer Dawson; her great-grandchildren, River, Piper, Winston, Elijah, Daniel, Riley, Amelia, Sadie, Jameson, Lucy, Penelope, Rosie, and Jettson; her brothers, Ken Eaves, Gentry Eaves Jr. (Martha), and Mike Eaves (Nancy); along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, cherished friends, and former students.
Pat and Royce shared nearly 65 years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, family, and unwavering love. Together they created a home where everyone felt welcomed, supported, and deeply loved.
For 31 years, Pat faithfully served as an elementary school teacher. She considered teaching more than a career—it was a calling. She believed every child deserved encouragement and patiently helped shape the lives of countless young people throughout her career.
Pat was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Arnold, where her faith continued to grow and guide her daily life. She lived with quiet strength, humility, and compassion, finding joy in serving others and trusting in God’s promises.
Outside of her family and church, Pat enjoyed tending her flower gardens, where she found beauty in God’s creation, and she especially loved garage sales, always hoping to discover a hidden treasure. Those who knew her will remember her gentle spirit, warm smile, generous heart, and the genuine interest she took in everyone she met.
Above all, Pat loved the Lord and treasured her family. Her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the greatest blessings of her life. She faithfully prayed for them, celebrated their accomplishments, and demonstrated unconditional love through both her words and her actions.
The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to the doctors, nurses, aides, and staff of The Arbors at Maplebrook in Farmington for the exceptional care, compassion, and dignity they provided to Pat during the past four years. Their kindness and devotion brought comfort not only to Pat but to her entire family, and they will always be remembered with gratitude.
Pat found great comfort in God’s Word, especially in two verses that reflected the peace and joy she carried throughout her life:
“This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” — Psalm 118:24
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you… Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” — John 14:27
Services will be held at First Baptist Church of Arnold. Family visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 22, with family visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m. Public visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place at 1:00 p.m. at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.
While Pat will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, her family rejoices in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ and the assurance that she has been welcomed into her heavenly home.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
A Kutis South County Chapel Service