Patricia Veasey

Patricia “Pat” VanLear Veasey, 79, of Easley, South Carolina, formerly of Clover, South Carolina, wife of Edward “Ed” David Veasey, passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025. 

Born on August 1, 1945, she dedicated her life to the pursuit of knowledge, education, and sharing the history that she loved. Her remarkable career began as a teacher, a role she fulfilled with passion for 15 years. Subsequently, Pat took on the position of Education Curator for the Culture and Heritage Commission based out of Historic Brattonsville in McConnells, South Carolina. This role allowed her to intertwine her love for history with education, and her enthusiasm for Southern women's history before the Civil War was evident in every endeavor she undertook. Pat was not only a respected educator but also a prolific writer. She authored the book "A Relentless Spirit," which delves into the life of Catherine Ladd, a Southern Educator, Entrepreneur, and Author. Her ability to bring the past to life through her work was inspiring to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her commitment to education extended beyond the classroom through the establishment of a History Summer Camp in collaboration with the Culture and Heritage Commission and the York County School District. Here, she nurtured a love for history in countless young minds, instilling in them the same passion that fueled her own pursuits. Education was central to Pat's life; her academic journey began at Saint Mary's School in Raleigh, North Carolina, followed by her studies at the University of Georgia. She concluded her education with a master’s degree in education from the University of Virginia, a testament to her dedication to learning. Beyond her professional commitments, Pat was a loving wife and devoted mother. Her warm spirit and nurturing nature enriched the lives of those around her. Her personal interests often paralleled her professional ones; she thrived on exploring history and researching family genealogy, immersing herself in the stories of the past. Pat had a keen interest in historic reenactments, where her talents shone as she created authentic costumes using period-accurate materials, showcasing her dedication to preserving history. An expert on the rich tapestry of Brattonsville's history, she was frequently called upon for her extensive knowledge of the Textile Industry and its impact on Southern culture. Faith was important to her, as she was a lifelong Presbyterian.

In addition to her husband of 55 years, she is survived by a son, Garland Michael Veasey (Nichole), of Oakway, South Carolina; a sister, Susan VanLear Waters, of Marietta, Georgia; and a nephew, Michael Waters, of Charleston, South Carolina.

The family will host a memorial service on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 2:00 PM, in the chapel of Foothills Presbyterian Home, 205 Bud Nalley Drive, Easley, SC 29642.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Schiele Museum of Natural History, www.schielemuseum.org/donate, or to Historic Brattonsville, https://chmuseums.org/. 

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory – Downtown, Easley.