It is with heavy hearts and profound respect that we announce the passing of Patricia Carnicle Ford Vaught, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, on July 3, 2026. Patricia departed this life after a long and courageous battle with ill health, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and cherished memories.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:45 am on Thursday, July 9, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Pat will be at 11:00 am on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Bishop Shawn Baldwin officiating. Burial will be at Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Born on September 14, 1936, in the serene town of Strawberry Point, Iowa, Patricia was the cherished daughter of James F. Carnicle and Alberta Smock Carnicle. She spent her formative years in a close-knit family, alongside her siblings, forging bonds that would last a lifetime. Patricia was predeceased by her parents, her sister, Dixie Lang, her brother, Dean Carnicle, her beloved daughter, Mary Briceland, and her husbands, Willard D. Ford and Jack Vaught.

Patricia’s journey through life was marked by her indomitable spirit and unwavering determination. She pursued her education with tenacity, proudly earning her GED as an adult and later becoming a certified nursing assistant (CNA). Her career as a CNA at Bethany Manor allowed her to touch countless lives with her kindness and compassion.

In 1952, Patricia married Junior Peacock, but it was in 1955 that she found her true soulmate, Willard D. Ford. Together, they shared 33 beautiful years until his passing in 1982. Her marriage to Jack Vaught in 1984 was brief, as he too passed away that same year. Patricia faced these losses with the same strength and grace that defined her life.

Patricia was a devoted mother to her children, Cathy Smith, Laurie Bartolotta (Joseph), and Robert (Diane) Ford, who survive her, along with her sister Peggy Walz. Her legacy extends to her 10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

A woman of diverse interests, Patricia found joy in baking, fishing, euchre, embroidery, latch hooking, and camping. Her relationship with the Chicago Cubs was one of enduring affection, albeit with its ups and downs.

Patricia was known for her stubborn yet determined personality, a trait that endeared her to all who knew her. Her social nature and welcoming spirit left a lasting impression on everyone she met. The countless games of euchre played with family and friends were a testament to her love for companionship and laughter.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and residents of The Rose of Dubuque, Ennoble Manor, and Hospice of Dubuque for their exceptional care and fellowship during Patricia’s final journey.

In honor of Patricia’s life, donations may be made to AA, Heart Associations, or the Tabernacle of Faith in Dubuque, causes close to her heart.