Patricia D Holt

Patricia was a woman of extraordinary intellect, unwavering discipline, and profound faith. A trailblazer in the truest sense, she devoted over four decades to the California Employment Development Department, where her brilliance and innovation left an indelible mark. Her passion for her work was so deep that she retired not once, but twice: first at 65 and again at 72—simply because she loved what she did.

Patricia was a pioneer in computer programming at a time when few even knew what a computer was. She wrote intricate and sophisticated programs for state governors, transforming policy into powerful, functional tools. In fact, she was the first employee (out of more than 30,000!) to receive a computer at the department. With that, she launched into a new era, tirelessly building systems that would adapt again and again as administrations changed.

Among her most impactful accomplishments was creating a groundbreaking Excel program that unified departmental budgets into a single annual document - an extraordinary feat at a time when most had never heard of Excel. Her ingenuity saved the state untold hours and resources and set a new standard for efficiency and accountability.

Patricia’s work ethic was as remarkable as her intelligence. She never took breaks or lunches and once said she had never even taken a pencil from work. Her life was governed by principle, discipline, and generosity. She gave more than 40% of her income to those in need and causes she believed in.

A true prayer warrior, Patricia began each day at 3:30 a.m. with her Bible, praying for her family, neighbors, and anyone placed on her heart. How she loved JESUS!!

Patricia remained fiercely independent to the end, still doing her own laundry and making her bed to military standards just weeks before her passing. Even in her final days, despite great physical pain, she was especially loving and full of gratitude. On Mother’s Day, she couldn’t say “I love you” enough.

She stayed civically engaged throughout her life, frequently writing insightful, and sometimes delightfully witty, letters to governors, members of Congress, and even presidents. Her voice was always well-reasoned, articulate, and impossible to ignore.

Her wishes, like everything else in her life, were clear, detailed, and meticulously planned - stamped, dated, and filed away for 30 years. Per her request, there will be no funeral or formal service. A private family memorial will be held in her honor.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Nest, https://nestpregnancycare.org  an organization dedicated to rescuing mothers and babies—causes dear to Patricia’s heart.

Her  legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the systems she built, and the prayers she lifted. Her life was one of uncommon brilliance, unshakable faith, and great love.

She is survived by her loving son, Gary L. Clay (Pat), and a large and cherished family. Grandchildren and their families: Steven Clay (Sona); great-grandchildren Gus Rigby, Faith Clay, and Gavin Robertson. Rachelle Clay Fullmer (Clay); great-grandchildren Hailey Fullmer Sackett (Hayden) – and great-great-grandchildren Waylon and Walker Sackett, Kayden Fullmer, and Aubrey Fullmer. Jason Clay; great-grandchildren ShayLee McMinn and Jordan Clay. Nathan Clay (Sharlie); great-grandchildren Sicily Clay, Conner Clay, Sadie Archibald, and Sydney Archibald. Matthew Clay (Katie). Cheryl Clay Bradbury (Cole); great-grandchild Madison Bradbury Kirkland (Mathieu).

Patricia was preceded in death by her beloved son, Philip M. Clay. Philip’s family includes: Grandson Jeremy Clay; great-granddaughter Maileigh Taylor and her son, great-great-grandson Kellen. Granddaughter Jamie Clay Ockerman (Richard); their children: Dominick Clay (Carm Vasquez), Richard Ockerman (Briana Elliot) and Travis, Shalesha Ockerman (Ethan TeNgaio), Ishma, John, Madison (Eli Vasquez), Ahlora, Shawnasea, Cheyenne, Liberty, and Trinity.

Patricia was also preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, both of her brothers, her son Philip, and great-great-grandson, William Sackett.

For those that trust totally in Jesus that He took our place, and paid the fine completely, it's "see you later", not "good bye".