Patricia “Pat” Tamson Birdsong, 85, of Excelsior Springs, Mo., passed away on June 29, 2020 at her home after a battle with cancer.
Patricia was born in Millville, Mo., on February 2, 1935, to Julia M. Russell and Alney R. Russell. Throughout her childhood the Russell family lived in nine different states, but the family ultimately returned to Missouri where Patricia graduated from Excelsior Springs High School in 1953. She later graduated from William Jewell College in Liberty, Mo. Patricia married Henry Max Birdsong in 1958, and on April 27, 2020, they celebrated their 62nd Anniversary as husband and wife. Patricia was a member of the First Baptist Church in Excelsior Springs for many years and later became a member of the Second Baptist Church in Liberty, Mo., which she attended until she was no longer capable. She was a beloved and gifted school teacher for over 35 years, and she retired from the Excelsior Springs School District in June of 1993. Patricia was an adored wife, mother, and grandmother. She dearly loved her family, her extended family, and her friends — and they all dearly loved her. Her laughter and her smile will always be remembered.
Patricia was preceded in death by her mother, Julia M. Kincaid-Russell, her father, Alney R. Russell, and her first child, Brett Birdsong.
She is survived by her husband, Henry Max Birdsong; and her sons, Todd Birdsong, Bryce Birdsong and his wife, Julie, and their sons, Drew and Max, and Chad Birdsong and his wife, LezLee, and her daughter, CayLee. She is also survived by her brother, Alney K. Russell and his wife, Gay Russell, and their children and grandchildren.
Patricia will lie in state from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursday, July 9, 2020, at Pisgah Baptist Church, with a service at 1 p.m. Burial will follow at Crown Hill Cemetery.
Our Sincere Condolences
Max, we were sorry to hear of your loss. We enjoyed knowing Pat and listening to the stories about teaching. Max, you were a great caregiver — that is a tough job. If we can do anything for you, let us know.
Gene & Anita
She was my 7th and 8th grade teacher at Prathersville. I remember her from First Baptist Church in Excelsior. She was such a wonderful lady.
Janice Groom
Dear Max, Todd, Chad, and Bryce,
So very sorry to hear of Pats passing. She was so fun. I loved playing cards with her. When my daughter Leslie, Todd’s age, heard about Pat, she said she remembered her being so sweet and how she loved her boys.
Hazel Livingston
Dear Max and all,
I will always remember Pat’s sweet smile and perky personality. Your family has mine and Al’s sympathy and we will continue to remember you all in prayer. Praying for your peace especially.
Katie and Al Richard
So sorry for your loss. I have many fond memories from times at First Baptist.
Kathy Marriott Goode
She was one of the good ones. She taught me during 5th grade at Wyman Elementary. She taught us to Square Dance and what to expect for Middle School coming up. Later in High School I got to know Chad well enough to call a good friend. Chad and I enjoyed hunting and fishing as well as just the outdoors in general. I stay in touch with Chad to this day. You can tell Pat had a lot to do with instilling the good stuff in her children as well.
Thoughts and prayers to Max, Todd, Chad, and Bryce.
Bryon & Amy Jeffers
Max:
Carole and I loved getting to know you and Pat through our Sunday School class and class picnics. Since we were also married in 1958, we found much similarity between your life’s journey and ours. We grieve with you over Pat’s loss. May our Lord be with you in these days of sadness and sorrow.
Jim and Carole
I’m so sorry to find out about Pat’s passing. Please know my thoughts are with all of you.
CaraSue Hall (Lawrence)
Sending my heartfelt condolences to the Birdsong family. Prayers for comfort and peace as you deal with the painful loss of such an amazing woman.
Deanna Mapes Jones
