Patsy H. Dees, nee Gregory, 95, of Belleville IL, born June 29, 1930, in Dover, TN, died Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at Asbury Methodist Village, Godfrey, IL.
Patsy was born in a log cabin in Dover, TN. She was a long-time member of the First Baptist Church in Belleville, IL. Not only was Mrs. Dees a devoted and strong Christian, she was also known as a Golden Girl along with her sister, Elsie. Patsy was a member of the Talkers Club with her friends and enjoyed their visits. She was a fiercely independent woman who loved making flower arrangements and spending time with friends and family whenever possible. She loved helping others with their problems and would lend a hand in any way she could. Pasty was also a lover of all animals, but especially her dog, Haides.
Patsy dedicated nearly 32 years of service as a CNA at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Belleville, IL. She worked primarily in the pediatric and nursery units and dearly loved providing care and comfort for the children. She was also a Girl Scout leader and provided positive direction to the young ladies in her troop.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 49 years, R.C. Dees, whom she married on January 28, 1950, and who died on February 28, 1999; a daughter, Debra Jean Diskey, who died in April 2009; a son, Bobby Dees, who died in April 2023; her parents, Richard H. and Minnie Mae, nee Powers, Gregory; three brothers, Franklin Gregory, at the age of 22 months, Elmer Keel, who was killed in Germany while serving for the United States Army in 1945, and Gene Gregory, who died in 2005; and two sisters, Elsie Kreitner, who died in 2021 and Juanita Wright, who died in 2019.
Surviving are two sons, Richard (Nancy) Dees of Maryville, IL, and Kevin “Joe” (Emily) Dees of Trenton, IL; a son-in-law, Brad Diskey; a daughter-in-law, Beverly Dees; 12 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Virginia Williamson; a sister-in-law, Rebecca Gregory; and many dear nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to BJC Hospice. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 7, 2026, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, May 8, 2026, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with Rev. Doug Stewart officiating.
Burial will be at Walnut Hill Cemetery, Belleville, IL.
