Patricia Suzanne de la Motte

Born on March 17, 1944, in San Diego, California, Patty grew up in Palm Springs, the beloved daughter of John and Sybil Strada. She graduated from Palm Springs High School in 1962 and went on to live a rich and fulfilling life, embracing many roles with passion and dedication. She worked as a hairdresser, a flight attendant during the early years of the Vietnam War, a motion picture film extra, a homemaker, PTA president, Den Mother, Team Mother, School Board member, and, in her most cherished roles, a loving mother to her sons, a "Nona" to her grandchildren Jackson and Emilia, and devoted wife to Ray.

Patty had a remarkable ability to make people feel special, greeting everyone with kindness, warmth, and an easy, infectious laughter. A true hostess at heart, she brought people together with joy and celebration, throwing countless dinner parties, Christmas parties, charade nights, and legendary crawfish and shrimp boils. Her home was always filled with laughter, good food, and the warmth of friendship.

An artistic soul, Patty had a creative touch that left a lasting impression. Her handmade team banners for her boys’ sports teams were the envy of every youth athletic league in Orange County, where she and Ray raised their family. Whether painting, crafting, or planning her next festive gathering, she infused everything she did with care and creativity. She shared a lifetime of love and adventure with her husband of 52 years, Ray de la Motte, whom she married on March 4, 1972. Their love story was one of deep devotion, culminating in a beautiful renewal of their vows on March 20, 2022, surrounded by family and officiated by their dear friend, Blake Perkinson. A lifelong music lover, Patty found joy in the songs of the Eagles, their lyrics and melodies a constant soundtrack to her journey. Whether traveling the world with Ray or enjoying time at home with family, she could often be found humming along to her favorite tunes.

She is survived by Ray; their sons, Stacy (50) and Kevin (47); her daughter-in-law Anya; her three grandchildren; her dear friends the Perkinson family; her sister, Judy Rech; and the countless friends and loved ones whose lives she touched over the years.

Patty’s spirit, generosity, and unwavering love will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.